Rutgers Disease Expert Available to Discuss E. coli Outbreak from Romaine Lettuce

A Rutgers University expert in infectious diseases is available to comment on the recent E. coli outbreak from romaine lettuce, which has currently affected seven people in New Jersey and more than 100 nationwide.

“The E. coli bacteria is commonly found in the human intestinal tract, but the O157: H7 strain can cause severe illness because it produces a toxin. The common symptoms people may experience are diarrhea, which can be bloody, and abdominal cramps,” said Tanaya Bhowmick, an assistant professor of Medicine, Infectious Diseases at Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and chair of the Antimicrobial Stewardship Program at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital.

“People should avoid eating romaine lettuce per the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) warning. If you’ve consumed lettuce recently, wait to see if you develop any symptoms, which usually takes three to four days to develop. Contact your health care provider immediately and write down the foods you ate per the CDC’s recommendation. About 5 percent of affected people with E. coli may develop severe infection with effects on their kidneys.”

To interview Dr. Tanaya Bhowmick, please contact Maud Alobawone at [email protected] or 848-445-1913.

Broadcast Interviews

Rutgers University–New Brunswick has broadcast-quality TV and radio studios available for remote live or taped interviews with Rutgers experts. For more information, contact Neal Buccino [email protected]

About RBHS

Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences (RBHS) takes an integrated approach to educating students, providing clinical care and conducting research, all with the goal of improving human health. Aligned with Rutgers University–New Brunswick, and collaborating university-wide, RBHS includes eight schools, a behavioral health network and four centers and institutes. RBHS offers an outstanding education in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, public health, nursing, biomedical research and the full spectrum of allied health careers. RBHS clinical and academic facilities are located throughout the state.

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