Safeway will provide a full refund to anyone who returns the beef or has proof that they purchased part of this particular lot. There are no reported cases of illness. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, symptoms of E. coli include severe bloody diarrhea and abdominal cramps. Other indicators of illness include non-bloody diarrhea, a slight fever or no symptoms may be present. Young children under five years of age and the elderly are most vulnerable to E. coli related illnesses, according to Harris.
People also have to be very conscious of cleanliness when handling raw meat.
Meat should be cooked properly to 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, Harris cautioned people to thoroughly clean utensils, countertops and hands. Avoiding cross contamination from mixing raw meat with cooked meat is also a crucial safety practice, she said.