UW-Madison establishes E. coli support network

The university has established a support network for members of the community affected by a recent infection of E. coli bacterium.

Students or parents with questions about the university’s response to the situation, medical expenses, lost class time, or any other issue associated with the E. coli-related illnesses, are asked to call the Dean of Students Office, (608) 263-5702.

The office will handle the request or facilitate a response from other university departments. Since medical confidentiality prevents UW–Madison officials from contacting students or their families directly, university officials encourage those needing assistance to contact the Dean of Students Office.

“The university and its staff will make every possible effort to assist students and their families during this difficult time,” says Dean of Students Alicia Chávez.

The E. coli bacterium has been linked to a tailgate event held at the UW Stock Pavilion prior to the Wisconsin vs. Indiana football game Saturday, Oct. 6. An additional four suspected E. coli cases related to the Oct. 6 event were reported to University Health Services today, Oct. 18, bringing the total number of people believed to be affected to 26.

Eleven cases have been confirmed. Many of those who experienced symptoms have already recovered. Of the 26 cases, two are children from the community; the rest are UW–Madison students.

One student remains hospitalized at UW Hospital and Clinics. He is in good condition and is expected to be released before this weekend.

University Health Services and the Wisconsin Division of Public Health are continuing to investigate the source of the E. coli, says UHS epidemiologist Craig Roberts. The incident is believed to be isolated.

However, it is unknown how long it will take to pinpoint a cause of the infection, Roberts says, noting that it is also possible that no exact cause will be determined.

The results of the investigation will help the university determine guidelines for future use of the Stock Pavilion. A Halloween haunted house planned for Oct. 19-20, and again Wednesday, Oct. 31, was cancelled as a precaution.

Students who attended the Oct. 6 event and experienced symptoms between Oct. 7-13 should contact UHS, (608) 265-5600. Other members of the community who attended and experienced symptoms should contact their health care provider or local public health agency.

UHS also has information about the disease.

A fact sheet on E. coli O157:H7 is also available on the Wisconsin Division of Public Health.