The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is investigating a mysterious outbreak of E. coli in five states, including Georgia.
So far, 72 people have contracted the illness and no specific food item, grocery store or restaurant chain has been identified as the source of the outbreak.
Eight people have been hospitalized and no deaths and no cases of kidney failure have been reported.
In Georgia, there have been eight reported cases of the illness.
People become sick from E. coli about three to four days after swallowing the germ. Symptoms include diarrhea, severe stomach cramps and vomiting. While most people recover from the illness within a week, some cases can last longer and be more severe.
According to the CDC, prevention of the illness includes hand washing and cooking meets thoroughly. Antibiotics are not recommended for E. coli infections.
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