Bengtson's Pumpkin Farm remains open amid investigation into E. coli cases

With fall festivities in full swing across the Chicago area, a popular suburban pumpkin farm is reminding the public it remains open, even while its petting zoo stays closed out of an abundance of caution over a potential link to several recently confirmed E. coli cases. Bengtson s Pumpkin Farm, in southwest suburban Homer Glen, said in a Facebook post on Monday it has been given approval by the Will County Health Department to continue operating. All rides, attractions, food stands and vendors remain open and are operating during regular hours, the post stated, in part. The health department said Friday it was investigating five confirmed cases of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, or STEC, that may be linked to visits at the pumpkin farm. STEC often spreads through contaminated food or water, or contact with animals, a contaminated surface or with someone who has it, according to the health department. The petting zoo is the only area of the farm that remains closed as the inv