E. coli cases linked to State Fair of Texas rising

Well, the head of Dallas County Health and Human Services says that there are now nine possible E. coli cases all tied back to the State Fair of Texas. Investigators are looking into whether the cases are connected to the fair's petting zoo. Fox 4's Peyton Yeager has been following this story and joins us with a live update. Hi, Peyton. Casey, good evening. And last night we told you that Dallas County Health here confirmed seven cases. Now it's nine cases. health investigators are still working to confirm lab results and also interview patients and their families. And those steps will help determine when Dallas County Health Department will share its findings. Yeah, we have spoken with them and explained the situation and our concern. Dallas County Health and Human Services communicating with the State Fair of Texas. Investigators trying to determine if the fair's petting zoo is linked to a cluster of E. coli cases. The state fair ended last week. The investigation just beginning. I think the count today is nine. Nine cases confirmed Wednesday. Patients of different ages with one thing in common, a trip to the fair. All infected with Shiga toxin producing E. coli. The bacteria can spread through contaminated food or water or contact with animals and their surroundings, followed by hand to mouth contact. Symptoms include abdominal pain, bloody stool, and vomiting. Severe cases can lead to kidney failure. I would say the range is very young to a teenager. Three North Texas families with children hospitalized in Dallas are getting help from the nonprofit Parker's Promise. The group is also reaching out to a fourth family. All four families attended the fair. Parker's promise supports families affected by environmental pathogens. Going to petting zoos is an extremely high risk activity for young kids. Want to get that word out. Anyone who may be infected urged to contact their doctor or Dallas County Health and Human Services directly. Kids, they can be very serious. The State Fair of Texas released a statement saying at this time there's no verified information that has established the cause of these reported illnesses. State Fair of Texas also went on to say it maintains health and safety precautions at these animal exhibits and they follow recommendations that come from the CDC. Furthermore, in their statement, they went to say that no precaution can eliminate every risk and it is currently cooperating with the necessary health authorities as the story will continue to follow.