Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli

Bacteria - Escherichia coli O157:H7

Symptoms - Severe and bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramps, dehydration.  In up to 5% of cases, a complication called Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS) occurs.  This complication occurs several weeks after the initial onset of symptoms and includes temporary anemia, bleeding, and even kidney failure.  Another complication can also occur called Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP), which is similar to that of Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome but also involves brain damage.  Enterohemorrhagic E. Coli is one of four different groups of E. Coli that have been implicated in foodborne disease outbreaks, however, it is the most common.

Sources - E. Coli is a bacteria that is found in the intestinal tract of humans, cattle, and other animals.  Food that is contaminated with feces is most often the cause of illness in people.  Contaminated foods that are undercooked is also another cause of illness.  E. Coli can be found in ground beef and raw milk, as well as pork, poultry, and lamb.

Incubation Period - The onset of symptoms usually begins 2-8 days after exposure.  On average however, symptoms begin on the third or fourth day after exposure.

Duration of Illness - The illness usually lasts for 5-10 days. In severe cases, usually involving (HUS) or (TTP) the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates 3%-5% of cases are fatal.

Treatment - Most people who become ill will recover on their own without treatment, on average, in about one week.  In those individuals who experience complications like (HUS) or (TTP) a blood transfusion or dialysis can be required.

Prevention - Be sure to cook all ground beef thoroughly, and return any undercooked ground beef products if you ordered a meal to be well-done in a restaurant.  Do not prepare fruits and vegetables or any ready to eat foods in the same area where raw meat is prepped unless the area has been thoroughly washed, rinsed, and sanitized.  Be sure that all individuals with diarrhea wash their hands thoroughly before handling food.

For additional information on E. Coli O157:H7, Click Here

Return to Food Home page

Return to Environmental Health Home page

Return to Stratford Health Dept Home page