Toddler dies from E. coli after visiting Oxford, Maine Fair (Video)

A toddler has died from E. coli after visiting a county fair in Maine.

Jon Guay says his son Colton began experiencing severe diarrhea shortly after going to the fair and visiting the petting zoo last month. His condition quickly worsened and he eventually began experiencing brain seizures which led to his death. Guay posted about his son’s death on his Facebook page.

The Maine Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed Tuesday two children contracted E. Coli last month at the Oxford County Fair.

The CDC has not released the names or the conditions of the children due to confidentiality laws.

Fair officials said Tuesday a state veterinarian will investigate the health of its animals.

E. coli is rare but has been connected to a number of fairs across the country in recent years, including cases in North Carolina, Oregon and Washington.

The Maine CDC says the best defense against E. Coli is thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water. If soap and water isn’t available, hand sanitizer is also effective. Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal cramping, pain or tenderness, nausea and vomiting and can cause death in some cases.

Agencies/Canadajournal