Escherichia coli(E. coli) are bacteria found throughout our environment, in animals, and in humans.
Many strains of E. coli are harmless, but some can cause illnesses ranging from mild to severe.
They can also contaminate beef when the animals are slaughtered.
Illustration by JR Bee, Verywell
The incubation period is defined as the time between exposure to the germs and the onset of symptoms.
Shiga toxin-producing E. coli is to blame for many foodborne illness outbreaks.
When an outbreak of STEC occurs due to contaminated food, there may be a widespread illness in communities.
It occurs in 5% to 10% of people who have STEC infections.
Those with HUS are usually hospitalized because the kidneys may stop functioning completely, which can be life-threatening.
Typically people who develop HUS recover within a few weeks but it can be fatal if not managed appropriately.
Stool (also called fecal) testing can sometimes identify the particular germ that is causing the symptoms.
Most labs can test for and identify Shiga toxin-producing E. coli.
Treatment
There is no medication to take for gastrointestinal E. coli infections.
Antibiotics are not helpful in treating this infection and using them can increase the chance of developing HUS.
Supportive care to reduce the chance ofdehydrationis essential.
Although it sounds disgusting, it is quite common and it is how most foodborne illnesses are spread.
To combat the spread of E. coli, it is very important to wash your hands.
E. coli outbreaks can occur anywhere and affect anyone.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Symptoms ofE.
National Kidney Foundation.Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS).
Minnesota Department of Health.E.
coliO157:H7 and HUS fact sheet.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.How to preventE.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Escherichia coliinfection.
