Escherichia coli O157 cluster evaluation

Abstract

We investigated a multistate cluster of Escherichia coli O157:H7 isolates; pulsed-field gel electrophoresis subtyping, using a single enzyme, suggested an epidemiologic association. An investigation and additional subtyping, however, did not support the association. Confirming E. coli O157 clusters with two or more restriction endonucleases is necessary before public health resources are allocated to follow-up investigations.