California public health officials, working with local health departments and federal partners, are investigating an E. coli O157:H7 outbreak linked to beef kofta served at several California locations of The Kebab Shop restaurant chain.
The kebab shop has voluntarily stopped selling grilled beef kofta at all of its locations, according to an outbreak notice posted by the California Department of Public Health.
As of May 19, 2026, nine Californians are infected with the outbreak strain of E. coli O157:H7. The disease onset dates range from March 27 to April 30. Six diseases occur in children: Five people were hospitalized, and two developed hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). No deaths were reported. At this time, no individuals from other states have been linked to the outbreak.
Interviews with sick people suggest that the roasted beef kofta served at The Kebab Shop is likely the cause of the outbreak. Kebab Shop actively cooperated with health authorities and voluntarily suspended the sale of grilled beef kofta at all stores from May 18.
There is no ongoing risk of exposure to this product at this time. While the investigation is ongoing, current information indicates that the beef products involved were distributed exclusively to The Kebab Shop. The state Department of Health and partner agencies are continuing to investigate to determine the cause of the outbreak, monitor additional cases, and conduct product testing.
About E. coli infection
Food contaminated with E. coli neither looks bad nor smells or tastes bad.
Anyone who ate outside of an affiliated restaurant and develops symptoms of an E. coli infection should seek medical attention and tell their doctor about their possible exposure to the bacteria. Specific tests are needed to diagnose infections, which can mimic other diseases.
Symptoms of an E. coli infection vary from person to person, but often include severe stomach cramps and bloody diarrhea. Some patients may also have a fever. Most patients recover within 5 to 7 days. Others may develop serious or life-threatening symptoms and complications.
About 5 to 10 percent of people diagnosed with E. coli infection develop a potentially life-threatening complication of kidney failure, known as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Symptoms of HUS include fever, abdominal pain, feeling very tired, decreased urination, small bruising or bleeding of unknown origin, and paleness.
Many people with HUS recover within a few weeks, but some suffer permanent injury or die. The condition can occur at any age, but is most common in people with compromised immune systems, such as children under 5 years of age, older adults with weakened immune systems, and people with cancer because their immune systems are immature.
People experiencing HUS symptoms should seek emergency medical care immediately. People with HUS are more likely to be hospitalized because it can cause other serious and lasting problems, including high blood pressure, chronic kidney disease, brain damage, and neurological problems.
