7 new cases in E. coli outbreak linked to romaine lettuce

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- If you eat a lot of salads, there's new information you need to know about the outbreak linked to lettuce.

The CDC says there are 7 new cases of E. coli in an outbreak that's struck 15 states - including Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

In the US and Canada, 66 people have gotten sick and two have died.

Officials in Canada point to romaine lettuce as the E. coli source.

The CDC says leafy greens are the likely source. But officials here aren't singling out romaine and won't recommend avoiding any particular food.

Consumer Reports disagrees.

"We think it's important to avoid eating romaine until the cause of this outbreak is determined," said Jean Halloran.

Washing lettuce or any produce tainted with E. coli won't remove the bacteria, so if you're in doubt, or concerned - throw it out.

Some companies - like fast food chain Wendy's and Compass - the nation's largest food service company - have voluntarily withdrawn all romaine lettuce for now.

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