Federico's Mexican Food Restaurant May Be Linked to E. Coli Outbreak

Litchfield Park, Arizona—An E. coli outbreak that has sickened at least eleven people may be tied to Federico's Mexican Food in Litchfield Park, Arizona. According to the Maricopa County Department of Public Health, eight of those affected required hospitalization. Some of those are believed to be experiencing kidney failure as a result of the infection.

The specific location linked to the outbreak is at 13132 W. Camelback Rd. The restaurant has closed pending the investigation by the Maricopa County Department of Public Health. It is not believed that other Federico's locations are affected by the contamination.

The Maricopa County Department of Health suspects that those sickened by the bacteria after eating at Federico's visited the restaurant between July 23, 2013 and July 24, 2013. The agency is working to determine whether additional customers were sickened after eating at the restaurant.

Symptoms from an E. coli infection typically take three or four days to develop, although it can take ten days or longer. The Maricopa County Department of Public Health believes it likely that additional people are infected that have not yet come to the attention of the agency.

If you or a loved has experienced symptoms consistent with E. coli contamination, including bloody diarrhea and abdominal cramps, you should immediately consult your physician for an evaluation.