The San Luis Obispo County Public Health Department confirmed five cases of E. coli infection.
Health officials are investigating a possible connection between the E. coli cases and Brookshire Farms in San Luis Obispo, with a suspected exposure period of Oct. 16-26.
In an Instagram statement, Brookshire Farms said it is cooperating with the investigation and will remain temporarily closed.
The city of San Luis Obispo also canceled its annual Pumpkin Smash event.
“After consulting with County Public Health regarding the ongoing outbreak investigation, we determined it was prudent to cancel the event out of an abundance of caution to help protect community health,” the city said in a press release.
E. coli infections can cause severe stomach cramps, diarrhea and vomiting, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
“We encourage anyone who may have been exposed and is experiencing symptoms consistent with E. coli infection to seek immediate medical attention,” County Health Officer Dr. Christy Mulkerin said in a press release.
Adrienne Bell Lent, a Cal Poly assistant professor of public health, encouraged residents to practice good hygiene as health officials investigate the E. coli cases.
“We should be washing our hands regardless of where we go,” Lent said.
Lent added that symptoms may not appear until several days after exposure, making it difficult to immediately recognize an infection.
Residents can report suspected E. coli cases to the San Luis Obispo County Public Health Department at (805) 781-5500, Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For after-hours emergencies, call (805) 781-4553.