Provide a valuable resource to your clients or customers by linking to this resource page. Just place the following link on your website.
Escherichia coli is a specific, harmful strain of the common bacteria. It produces a powerful toxin (Shiga toxin) that severely damages the lining of the intestine, leading to bloody diarrhea and sometimes severe kidney complications.
read more about escherichia coli e coli o157 ...This is a specific serotype of the bacteria that is known as an enterohemorrhagic strain, meaning it causes severe, often bloody, inflammation of the intestines. It produces toxins that are dangerous to human health.
Contamination stems from ingesting undercooked ground beef, unpasteurized milk or juice, or produce exposed to animal waste. Cross-contamination in kitchens and inadequate handwashing spread the bacteria. Swallowing water from contaminated lakes or pools is another source. A very low infectious dose can lead to severe illness.
Symptoms begin suddenly and include severe, watery diarrhea that often becomes bloody, intense abdominal cramps, and vomiting. Fever is usually mild or absent. The illness typically resolves within one week.
The main risk is Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome, a life-threatening complication that occurs primarily in children. This syndrome involves the destruction of red blood cells and severe damage to the kidneys, leading to potential kidney failure.
Infection and the resulting Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome can impact eye health. The syndrome can cause damage to the retina and small blood vessels of the eye, leading to retinal bleeding or occlusions (blockages) that can cause blurred vision or permanent loss of sight.
No, it is a rare strain, but it is one of the most serious foodborne illnesses.
Thorough handwashing, proper cooking of ground meats, and avoiding cross-contamination are necessary preventative measures.
No, antibiotics are generally avoided, as they can sometimes increase the release of the Shiga toxin.
If you have bloody diarrhea, seek emergency care immediately. E. coli O157 can lead to "Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome" (HUS), which causes acute kidney failure. Monitor for "petechiae" (tiny red spots on the skin) or decreased urination, as these are critical warning signs of HUS.
NHS inform. E. coli O157 (nhsinform.scot). 2025.
CDC. E. coli (cdc.gov). 2024.
FDA. Foodborne Pathogens (fda.gov). 2019.
ECDC. STEC Infection (ecdc.europa.eu). 2024.