Health officials have wrapped up their investigation into a Giardia outbreak that affected more than 100 people in Hopkins County, with the majority of the cases linked to a local restaurant.
The Hopkins County Health Department announced Thursday that the investigation into the Giardia outbreak first reported on July 7 is now closed. Health officials say the inquiry was a collaborative effort involving local, state, and federal agencies.
Officials report that out of 131 total Giardia cases in Hopkins County, 100 were connected to El Tapatio Restaurant in Madisonville. Sixteen cases were considered sporadic or unrelated to the restaurant, while 15 individuals either declined interviews or could not be reached for follow-up.
According to local health officials, El Tapatio temporarily closed after the outbreak and cooperated fully with the investigation. They said environmental testing was conducted, and an inspection on July 11 found the walk-in refrigerator above the safe temperature, which can increase the risk of foodborne illness.
During the closure, officials noted that the food was discarded, the ice machine was cleaned and filtered, plumbing issues were fixed, and staff received updated food safety training. They said water in related areas was also tested and deemed safe.
Officials report that since El Tapatio reopened on July 22, no additional Giardia cases associated with the restaurant have been reported as of Thursday.
