The investigation is reportedly focusing on a Phillipsburg, N.J.-based location of soup-and-sandwich chain Panera Bread, according to NJ.com.
Five of the eight patients who were hospitalized have been discharged, according to the New Jersey Department of Health.
“The Department is investigating a possible association with a chain restaurant, but the association may be broader than a single chain restaurant,” the department told CNBC in a statement. The department did not disclose the restaurant’s name.
The investigation is still developing and may reveal more than just one restaurant or restaurant brand associated with the outbreak, the department told CNBC.
Panera directed CNBC to the health department’s statement when asked about the outbreak.
The New Jersey Department of Health is conducting lab tests to determine whether the strain of E. coli matches. The CDC will then conduct its own tests.
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