KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) – At least five people, including a 12-year-old child, who live in the Kansas City metro area have become ill with E. coli, according to health officials.

The Kansas City Health Department said the victims, ages 12 to 37, experienced symptoms including severe gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea and vomiting.

The department said three of the five people diagnosed with E. coli were hospitalized for up to a week.

According to the Kansas City Department of Health, four of the five cases are linked to the multi-state McDonald's outbreak.

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The office said it is working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to investigate the E. coli outbreak.

So far, 75 people in 13 states, including Missouri and Kansas, have been diagnosed with E. coli. According to the Kansas City Health Department, one person died and another 22 of the patients were hospitalized.

In addition, one child and one adult are being treated for a complication that can lead to kidney failure, according to the CDC.

Health investigators said interviews with those affected revealed that all had eaten at McDonald's before becoming ill. They also said the majority of people reported eating a Quarter Pounder with fresh beef and sliced ​​onions.

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The CDC is still working to determine the exact source of the E. coli contamination.

Until then, the health department is asking people to pay attention to changes in their health:

• Monitor for symptoms: Watch for symptoms such as severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, and fever.
• Seek medical attention: If you experience symptoms after eating a Quarter Pounder, seek medical attention immediately. Tell your doctor about your last meals to help diagnose.
• Practice food hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the toilet, preparing food, or changing diapers.
• Avoid preparing food when you are sick: If you have diarrhea, you should avoid preparing food for others.

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