Local News
Will County, IL: Health Department Investigates Five E. Coli Cases Possibly Linked to Pumpkin Farm
HOMER GLEN, Ill. — The Will County Health Department is investigating five laboratory confirmed cases of Shiga toxin producing E. coli STEC that may be connected to visits to Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm i
By Audrey Sloan · 2026-10-23T23:50:19.830Z
HOMER GLEN, Ill. — The Will County Health Department is investigating five laboratory confirmed cases of Shiga toxin producing E. coli STEC that may be connected to visits to Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm in Homer Glen, health officials announced.
The department said investigators are working to determine how the infections occurred and whether the five cases share a common source.
The potential connection to the popular fall attraction remains under investigation. Health officials have not established that the pumpkin farm was the source of the infections.
Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm is a seasonal attraction in Homer Glen that draws visitors during the fall for pumpkin picking and other family oriented activities.
Shiga toxin producing E. coli is a type of bacteria that can cause gastrointestinal illness, including severe stomach cramps, diarrhea and vomiting. Some infections can lead to serious complications, particularly among young children and older adults.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, symptoms of STEC infection typically develop three to four days after exposure, although they can appear anywhere from one to 10 days afterward.
In severe cases, the infection can cause hemolytic uremic syndrome, a potentially life threatening complication that can lead to kidney failure.
People experiencing bloody diarrhea, severe abdominal pain or signs of dehydration should seek medical attention.
The Will County Health Department has not identified a common source of exposure or explained how the five individuals may have contracted the bacteria.
It was not immediately clear when the illnesses occurred, whether any patients required hospitalization or whether additional cases were being investigated.
The investigation comes during the peak fall season, when pumpkin farms and other agricultural attractions typically experience increased visitor traffic.
Health officials continue working to identify the source of the infections and determine whether the cases are connected.
Additional information is expected as the investigation progresses.
Source: Will County Health Department and Community Health Center.