Capitola Beach closed due to E. coli outbreak that has sickened nine Bay Area children

Capitola Beach is temporarily closed due to an E. coli outbreak, according to Santa Cruz County officials.  County public health officials are currently investigating a “potentially serious strain” of E. coli that has infected nine children across the greater San Francisco Bay Area, according to a joint media release from the City of Capitola and the Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency. This strain of E. coli O157 can cause severe gastrointestinal illness, including diarrhea that may be bloody, abdominal cramps and vomiting. Some infections can lead to serious complications, especially among young children. Four of the cases involve Santa Cruz County residents, while the other five involve residents from other Bay Area counties; public health officials did not specify which. According to the joint statement, all nine cases are linked, suggesting a “common source or related exposures.”  Capitola Beach will remain closed while the investigation continues. The closure is