The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) is investigating an increase in cases of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) in Central Missouri during late March and early April, 2012. Five cases of E. coli O157:H7 have been identified during this time period. Two of the cases, a two-year old child and a 17-month old child, reportedly have developed hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS).

The investigation is ongoing and the source of the infections has not been identified.