Popular Chicago-area pumpkin farm investigated over potential E. coli exposure

HOMER GLEN, Ill. - Health officials are investigating five laboratory-confirmed cases of E. coli that may be linked to visits to a suburban Chicago pumpkin farm.

Pumpkin farm investigated for E. coli exposure

What we know:

The Shiga toxin-producing E. coli may be linked to visits to Bengtson's Pumpkin Farm in Homer Glen, according to the Will County Health Department.

Health officials are working to determine how the infections occurred and whether the cases share a common source.

As a precaution, the farm has voluntarily closed its petting zoo and is arranging for animal testing, according to the health department. Officials said the farm’s owners and staff have been cooperating with the investigation.

"The Will County Health Department is committed to a thorough investigation to better understand how these infections occurred," said Sean Conners, director of environmental health at the department.

Fox Chicago has reached out to Bengtson's Pumpkin Farm for a statement. We have yet to receive a response.

What is E. coli?

What to know:

E. coli is a type of bacteria commonly found in the intestines of people and animals. While most types are harmless, certain strains, including Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, can cause illness.

The bacteria can spread through contaminated food or water, contact with animals or contaminated surfaces, or contact with an infected person.

Symptoms may include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea that can be bloody and vomiting. Some people may also experience a low fever, while others may not have a fever at all.

Symptoms typically develop within three to four days after exposure but can begin anywhere from one to 10 days later.

Most people recover within a week, but some infections can cause serious complications. Children younger than 5, older adults and people with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of severe illness.