Perfect timing is an understatement. 2 days before Thanksgiving, with some posting up in
blankets in the comfort of their home, stuck in a trance of APUSH, Lincoln’s speeches circling
their heads like sharks. Others eat their Chinese takeout, finishing up on the work they simply
will not have to do within the next two days of cooking and cleaning, turkeys and potatoes the
only thoughts running through their clouded minds. Nevertheless, everyone is in strict
preparation for the weekend to come, awaiting the peace in anticipation. A much-needed break.
That is until the announcement on Tuesday evening spreads like wildfire, putting more on not the
physical plates, but mental plates of Americans around the world.
On November 20, the CDC announced to the public “not to consume romaine lettuce and
to destroy any romaine lettuce in their homes”. Happy holidays is right. The lettuce many
families intended to serve for Thanksgiving was already being used as a home for the bacteria that
had taken it hostage for the break. Our holiday visitors, E Coli strain 0157 has spread yet again.
So far there have already been 31 cases of E-coli in 12 different states, with 11 out of 14 surveyed
reported they had recently eaten romaine lettuce.
Surprisingly, most strings of E-coli aren’t harmful, as they make their ways into our
bodily systems on a regular basis. The particular type of E Coli investing our romaine lettuce
currently is Shiga Producing E-Coli 0157. Afraid it’s using you as a rental home for the break?
Common symptoms are nausea, cramping, and diarrhea. These are extremely common and non-
life-threatening. So why is everyone so scared? Well, this bacteria has a track record for
hospitalizing people and even death. The fatality of E.coli has to do with its connection to a
different condition concerning kidney failure. If the E.coli is strong and resistant enough, it
causes a condition called hemolytic uremic syndrome, which is technical wording for kidney
failure. With 31 cases already, the FDA and CDC aren’t taking any chances. They continue to
investigate the cases of this particular E.coli and stand firmly with their announcement to steer
clear from romaine lettuce this winter break. You may notice the lack of crunchy, mouth-
watering lettuce in stores around Roosevelt such as Taco Del Mar, and Whole Foods. So, next
time you’re waiting in line for a burrito, avoid the lettuce for a vomit-free and nausea free
holiday season.
