Escherichia coli Infection
( E. coli Infection, Escherichia coli O157:H7)
Definition
Escherichia coli ( E. coli) infection is caused by a bacteria. It is the leading cause of bloody diarrhea. This type of infection may need medical attention. Contact your doctor if you think you may have it.
Causes
This infection is caused by some types of the E. coli bacterium. Most E. coli infections are caused by:
- Eating undercooked beef, especially ground beef
- Drinking contaminated water
- Drinking unpasteurized milk
- Working with cattle
Digestive Pathway Through Stomach and Intestines
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Risk Factors
Factors that increase your chance of developing E. coli infection include:
- Age: children and older people
- People with another illness
- Working with cattle
- Living in northern states
Symptoms
Symptoms of E. coli infection include:
- Abdominal cramps
- Watery diarrhea
- Dehydration
- Fatigue
- Bright red, bloody stools
- Mild fever
- Nausea or vomiting
Diagnosis
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Your waste material may be tested. This can be done with a stool culture.
Treatment
Talk with your doctor about the best plan for you. Treatment options include:
Fluid Replacement and Monitoring
Most people will get better in 5-10 days. They rarely need a specific treatment. Avoid medicine that stops diarrhea. Drink plenty of water and fluids. Fluids through an IV line may be needed in cases of severe dehydration.
Treatment for Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS)
HUS is a life-threatening condition. It occurs in some people with E. coli infection. HUS may need to be treated with blood transfusions and kidney dialysis. Symptoms may include:
- Pale complexion, tiredness, and irritability
- Small, unexplained bruises, or bleeding from the nose or mouth—caused by problems in the body’s clotting mechanism
Kidney Dialysis
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If you are diagnosed with an E. coli infection, follow your doctor's instructions.
Prevention
To help prevent E. coli infection:
- Cook all ground beef and hamburger thoroughly.
- Avoid eating undercooked hamburger or other ground beef.
- Keep raw meats separate from ready-to-eat foods.
- Wash hands, counters, and utensils with hot soapy water after they are exposed to raw meat.
- Drink only pasteurized milk, juice, and cider.
- Wash fruits and vegetables under running water.
- Drink municipal water that has been treated with a disinfectant.
- Wash hands after bowel movements and after changing soiled diapers.
RESOURCES:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
http://www.cdc.gov
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
http://www.niaid.nih.gov
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Food Inspection Agency
http://www.inspection.gc.ca
Public Health Agency of Canada
http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca
REFERENCES:
E Coli infection. American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: http://familydocto... . Updated February 2011. Accessed March 20, 2013.
E. coli (Escherichia coli) . Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Available at: http://www.cdc.gov/ecoli/ . Accessed March 20, 2013.
Frequently asked questions about Escherichia Coli infection. New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services website. Available at: http://www.nj.gov/health/cd/documents/factsheets/f_ecoli.pdf . Accessed March 20, 2013.
Last reviewed September 2012 by Daus Mahnke, MD
Last Updated: 3/20/2013