E coli. Outbreak Spreads to New York

Seven New Yorkers were among those sickened by a spreading E. coli outbreak that prompted the Food and Drug Administration to warn Americans against eating bagged spinach. Across the country one person died, eight people suffered kidney failure and at least 50 people were reported ill in connection with the outbreak which has spread to at least ten states, said the agency. New York State Health Commissioner Antonia C. Novello said, “If you have bought pre-packaged fresh spinach, don’t eat it. If it is in your refrigerator throw it out. Rinsing the spinach will not make it safe to eat.” New York health authorities said they confirmed four cases of E. coli from Erie County, one case in Schoharie County, one case in Schenectady County, and one case in Chemung County.—Mike McPhate