E. coli outbreak possibly linked to Portillo's in Glendale Heights, warn health officials

A recent outbreak of E. coli may be linked to a Portillo's in Glendale Heights, the Illinois Department of Public Health said Friday.

Four cases of a toxin producing the bacteria and one case of a resultant blood syndrome stemmed from customers eating at the Portillo's at 235 E. North Ave. on July 16 and 17, IDPH said in a health alert.

A Portillo's spokeswoman said the company was taking the matter seriously and is cooperating with health authorities.

"The health and safety of our team members and guests is our top priority," Sara Wirth said in a statement. "Across Portillo's, we have extensive sanitary and food handling guidelines in place, including daily deep cleanings of all restaurants. ... Once notified (of the outbreak), we moved quickly and began assisting with the investigation and revisiting our food safety best practices with our team members to mitigate potential future risk."

Wirth said customers can call 877-394-4150 with any questions or concerns.

E. coli can cause abdominal cramps and severe diarrhea. Symptoms can last about five to seven days and most people recover without treatment.

For questions or additional information about the outbreak, contact the IDPH Communicable Disease Control Section at (217) 782-2016.