Original story HERE on foxphoenix

PHOENIX -

Maricopa County health officials are investigating an outbreak of bloody diarrhea in the west side of the Phoenix area.

The Departments of Public Health and Environmental Services says 11 people have reported the illness so far and seven of those people have been hospitalized.

The outbreak appears to be linked to the Federico's Mexican Restaurant located at 13132 W. Camelback Road in Litchfield Park.

MCDPH says 11 of the 15 individuals with bloody diarrhea either purchased food from or eaten at the restaurant.
According to the department, the illness appears to be caused by bacteria that produces a toxin that can cause severe illness, especially in children. The illness can lead to kidney failure and even death.
Sorry...hope you didn't just eat dinner.

This is both a heads-up if we have any ants in the SW but also as a reminder to be prepared. Can you imagine having to deal with this in a large scale SHTF event? Diarrhea is both gross and has the ability to rapidly dehydrate you. That can get dangerous fast.