Illinois Health Officials: 70 Suspected Ill from Apple Cider

Health officials in two western Illinois counties say the count of people with suspected illness linked to apple cider has risen to 70.

The Quincy Herald-Whig reports that’s the updated tally from the health departments of Pike and Adams counties. The departments are investigating gastrointestinal symptoms among people who drank cider during a fall festival called the Pike County Color Drive.

Officials are testing for E. coli bacteria and a microscopic parasite called cryptosporidium. The Illinois Department of Public Health is assisting with the investigation.

The fall festival was held Oct. 17 and 18 at several locations in Pike County. People who purchased apple cider from vendors at the festival are encouraged to contact a local health department so the product can be tested.