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CDC Says To Stay Away From Romaine Lettuce Due To E. coli Outbreak

Justin Sullivan
/
Getty Images

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control is urging consumers not to eat any romaine lettuce, and to throw out any that might be on hand, due to an E. coli outbreak.

Thirty-two people in 11 states have become ill with E. coli, and the CDC says evidence points to romaine lettuce as the likely source, though it has not been able to identify a common supplier or brand that's responsible.

E. coli can cause severe stomach cramps, diarrhea and vomiting, and some cases can cause kidney failure. Some infections can be more severe and life-threatening.

No cases have been reported in Maine, but the CDC is advising that all consumers should refrain from eating romaine because no common grower or brand has been identified.