E. coli Infection: Signs, Origins, and Remedies
In the United States, approximately 265,000 cases of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) infections occur annually, with potential sources including tap water, private wells, lakes, swimming pools, undercooked ground beef, unpasteurised milk, juice, cider, cheese, alfalfa sprouts, and raw vegetables [1]. This bacterium, commonly found in the gut of warm-blooded organisms, can also be spread in farms, petting zoos, and fairs [2].
STEC strains, such as E. coli O157:H7, produce Shiga toxins that can cause a range of human illnesses, from mild diarrhea to severe hemorrhagic colitis and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a life-threatening condition [1]. HUS usually starts about 5 to 8 days after the onset of diarrhea and is a medical emergency that requires hospital treatment [3].
Symptoms of an E. coli infection include abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, and sometimes vomiting. Most people recover from E. coli infection within 6 to 8 days, but it can be life-threatening in infants and people with weakened immune systems [3]. People with a weakened immune system are more prone to complications from E. coli-related illness, and HUS is particularly dangerous for young children and older people, with around 10 percent of those who develop E. coli infection potentially developing HUS [3].
Acute kidney failure among infants and young children is usually caused by HUS [4]. HUS is characterized by hemolysis, a breakup of red blood cells, and can cause anemia, a low platelet count, and kidney failure [4]. In severe cases, patients with HUS can also develop central nervous system (CNS) problems that affect the brain and spinal cord, leading to seizures, paralysis, brain swelling, and coma [4].
However, there is no cure for E. coli O157:H7, and antibiotics may increase the risk of a complication called Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS) [2]. Decreased platelets increase the risk of bleeding problems, and platelets clump together within the small blood vessels of the kidneys in HUS, resulting in reduced blood flow and ischemia [4].
To combat the spread of E. coli, it is crucial to follow good hygiene practices. This includes washing hands thoroughly with warm water and soap regularly, and especially after using the bathroom, after changing diapers, before and after preparing foods, and after touching animals [5]. Hygiene rules also help prevent the spread of E. coli, as infected people who work in restaurants can spread E. coli infection to customers and other staff if they do not wash their hands properly after going to the toilet [6].
Preventive steps for STEC infections include proper food handling and cooking, such as cooking meat thoroughly, especially ground meat, to safe temperatures, and avoiding unpasteurised dairy products and juices [1]. Safe water practices, such as using clean, treated water for drinking and washing foods, are also essential [1]. To avoid cross-contamination, it is recommended to use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meat and other foods [1]. Public health measures, such as monitoring and surveillance of STEC in food sources and animals, and educating at-risk populations, are also important in minimizing the risk of acquiring STEC infections from common sources like contaminated food, water, and animal contact [1].
References: [1] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) infections. Retrieved from
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