According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a total of 19 persons infected with the outbreak strain of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli O121 have been reported from five states. The number of ill persons identified in each state is as follows: California (1), Idaho (3), Michigan (1), Montana (2), Utah (1), and Washington (11). Forty-four percent of ill persons have been hospitalized. Epidemiologic investigation has shown that the contaminated clover sprouts were served at multiple restaurant locations, including Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwiches, Daanen’s Delicatessen, and Pita Pit. The FDA conducted an inspection of the Evergreen Fresh Sprouts facility and observed a number of unsanitary conditions. Health officials from the Washington State Department of Health and the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare have advised people not to consume raw clover sprouts manufactured and distributed by Evergreen Fresh Sprouts, located in Idaho.
Marler Clark E. coli Attorneys filed several lawsuits in federal and state courts against Evergreen Fresh Sprouts. All cases have settled.