The State of Oklahoma is currently 1 of the 14 states where residents have been confirmed infected with Listeria monocytogenes stemming from contaminated cantaloupes. But this is not the first time Oklahoma has experienced an unwanted large food poisoning incident resulting in injured residents.
Country Cottage E. coli O111 outbreak – In 2008, customers eating at the Country Cottage Restaurant in Locust Grove, Oklahoma, between August 15 and August 24, 2008, became ill with E. coli O111. The exact mode of spread within the restaurant was never established, however the epidemiological analysis suggested that there had been ongoing foodborne transmission until the restaurant was closed by health officials on August 25. Over 344 people fell ill, with 26 persons developing hemolytic uremic syndrome, a serious kidney and blood complication of toxigenic E. coli infections. Due to insurance coverage issues, it is unlikely that the victims will be fully compensated for their substantial and permanent injuries. As a result, Marler Clark has waived all of its fees and costs for the 14 clients it represents.