CDC investigates E. coli outbreak linked to organic carrots, 39 infected in 18 states

Federal health officials are investigating a multistate outbreak of E. coli infections linked to organic carrots.

As of Wednesday, 39 people in 18 states have been infected with the bacteria, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

No deaths have been reported, but 18 people have been hospitalized, including five who developed a type of kidney failure called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS).

The CDC is advising people not to eat organic carrots from the following brands:

• Wholesome Farms Organic Carrots
• Marketside Organic Carrots
• Melissa's Organic Carrots

The carrots were sold at retailers nationwide, including Walmart, Kroger, and Target.

The CDC is working with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to investigate the outbreak and identify the source of the contamination.

Symptoms of E. coli infection include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, and vomiting. Most people recover within a week, but some can develop serious complications, such as HUS.

If you have eaten organic carrots from any of the affected brands and are experiencing symptoms of E. coli infection, you should see a doctor immediately.

Here are some tips to prevent E. coli infection:

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling food.
• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating them.
• Cook meat thoroughly to kill bacteria.
• Avoid unpasteurized milk and cheese.
• If you have any symptoms of E. coli infection, see a doctor immediately.