#United States #Food Poisoning #El Tapatio #Giardia #Hopkins County

First Lawsuit Filed After Giardia Outbreak at El Tapatio

On July 14, 2025, the legal landscape shifted in Hopkins County, Kentucky, as the first lawsuit was filed in connection with the alarming Giardia outbreak linked to the El Tapatio restaurant. This establishment has gained notoriety for being the epicenter of food poisoning cases that have affected numerous patrons.

This legal action was initiated by renowned food poisoning attorney Jory Lange, supported by distinguished Kentucky lawyer Hans Poppe. According to Lange, there is a high probability of additional lawsuits emerging as more individuals who contracted Giardia seek justice. He has stated, “Multiple people who got Giardia from El Tapatio have asked us to represent them. The purpose of the lawsuit is to help people receive compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and the emotional distress they have suffered.”

Local health authorities report that at least 24 individuals in Hopkins County have fallen ill due to Giardia parasites traced back to the popular eatery located at 401 Madison Square Dr, Suite 37, Madisonville, KY 42431. The dynamics of Giardia infections, according to Lange, mean that more cases may surface in the following weeks, as symptoms typically manifest 1 to 2 weeks after exposure. Symptoms can persist anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks and can take up to 25 days to appear.

“The El Tapatio Giardia outbreak is likely to grow,” Lange warns. “As these gastrointestinal parasites often go unnoticed, and because the contamination does not affect the taste, smell, or appearance of food, it is vital that restaurants prioritize food safety.”

The level of anxiety around this outbreak raises significant concerns for consumers, as there is no reliable way to detect the presence of Giardia parasites. With potentially high numbers of individuals affected, the implications for public health are considerable. The legal community is now gearing up for a barrage of cases that may arise from this troubling incident.

The Attorneys Behind the Lawsuit

Jory Lange has established himself as a formidable force in food poisoning litigation, having recently secured a historic $10 million settlement for a family affected by foodborne illness. This is believed to be one of the largest settlements in U.S. history related to such cases. Lange's track record of success illustrates his commitment to holding negligent parties accountable.

Hans Poppe is also a prominent figure in the legal domain, with accolades that affirm his expertise, including the titles of Kentucky Plaintiff Trial Lawyer of the Year and Outstanding Trial Lawyer of the Year. His deep understanding of personal injury law equips him to navigate the complexities of cases like the one emerging from the El Tapatio outbreak.

The Path Forward

The Lange Law Firm advocates for families affected by contaminated products and aims to ensure that restaurants upholding food safety standards are held accountable for their failures. For those who suspect they have contracted Giardia after dining at El Tapatio, the firm offers free consultations to explore potential legal claims.

As this situation unfolds, the focus will remain on protecting consumers and ensuring that justice is served for those impacted by the outbreak. With the legal community now involved, the hope is that heightened awareness will lead to improved food safety protocols across the board and prevent similar outbreaks in the future.

In light of these developments, consumers are urged to remain vigilant concerning food safety practices and report any suspected illnesses to local health officials promptly. Public awareness and legal action may become pivotal in driving the changes necessary to mitigate the risks associated with foodborne illnesses and safeguard public health.