“People should be aware of the facts about E. coli, including the symptoms and the ways you can protect yourself from the bacterium,” Stack said.

Over the last several weeks, there have been numerous E. coli cases linked to Taco Bell restaurants in Pennsylvania, New York and New Jersey.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health is investigating four cases of E.coli in residents in Montgomery County; three of these cases confirmed eating at Taco Bell recently and a fourth case may be linked to a Philadelphia Taco Bell.

As a result of its own investigation, Taco Bell has voluntarily removed all green onions from all 5,800 chains nationwide. Taco Bell closed all 15 Taco Bell restaurants in Philadelphia yesterday.

“The best way to protect you and your family from contracting E. coli is by learning the facts about the bacterium,” Stack said. “The Pennsylvania Department of Health offers great information on E. coli.”

E. coli is a bacterial foodborne illness that is commonly associated with eating undercooked, contaminated ground beef or produce, as well as unpasteurized milk and sewage-contaminated water.

Symptoms of this illness include bloody diarrhea and abdominal cramps, sometimes vomiting or fever and occasionally kidney failure.

Most people recover without antibiotics or other specific treatment in about a week, although infants and the elderly are most susceptible to severe cases. Antidiarrheal medicine, like Imodium, should not be taken.

E. coli can be diagnosed by detecting the bacterium in a person’s stool, and can be spread through person-to-person contact if the infected person does not use hygienic practices like thorough hand washing after using the bathroom.

“Even though most people fully recover from the illness, you should go to the hospital and get tested if you think you have E. coli,” Stack said. “You can also take preventative measures to protect yourself and your family from contracting E. coli.”

The Pennsylvania Department of Health recommends cooking all ground beef thoroughly to 160 degrees. Keep raw meat separate from ready-to-eat foods and wash your hands after handling raw meat. Also, drink only pasteurized juice, milk and cider and wash all fruits and vegetables before eating them.

For more information, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Health online at www.dsf.health.state.pa.us

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