Central California pumpkin farm closes amid E. coli investigation

Health officials in San Luis Obispo County have confirmed five cases of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli infection and are investigating a possible link to Brookshire Farms, a popular corn-maze and pumpkin-patch attraction. The cases were reported among visitors who were on the farm between Oct. 16 and Oct. 26, though the exact source of the bacteria has not yet been identified.

The county public health department urged anyone who visited the farm during that period and later developed gastrointestinal symptoms such as severe stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea or vomiting to seek medical care. Symptoms typically appear three to ten days after exposure.

"We are working diligently to identify the source of these infections to protect the health of our community," said San Luis Obispo County Health Officer Dr. Christy Mulkerin. "We encourage anyone who may have been exposed and is experiencing symptoms consistent with E. coli infection to seek immediate medical attention."

Brookshire Farms has voluntarily closed while investigators gather information from visitors and conduct follow-up activities. The farm said it will remain closed for the rest of the pumpkin season while awaiting test results.

"Safety is our main concern. We are waiting on the test results from the county health department. Until then, there is nothing to comment on," the farm said in a statement.

County spokesperson Tom Cuddy confirmed that three children under age 10 were hospitalized in serious condition and are being treated in a pediatric intensive care unit, noting that young children are at highest risk for complications from this type of infection.

The California Department of Public Health explained that STEC bacteria can be transmitted through contaminated food, water, animal contact or person-to-person spread, and emphasized preventive measures such as thorough cooking, hand washing and avoiding untreated water.