E.coli, if not treated correctly by medical professionals, can cause damage to red blood cells, kidney failure and potential death in 1 out of 50 victims.

A study of E.Coli within the past decade documented E.Coli 0157:H7 as responsible for 73,480 illnesses, 2,168 hospitalizations and 61 deaths in the United States.

Between 1995-2006, 22 produce outbreaks were documented in the United States, with nearly half traced to lettuce or spinach grown in California.

Multistate outbreaks prompting health authority investigation and recalls are occurring again, prompting consumer confusion and the need for clarification regarding the origin of E.coli bacterium.

What is E.Coli?

• E.Coli or Escherichia coli is a common bacteria found in the intestines of both humans and animals.
• The strain (or type of) of E.Coli labeled 0157:H7 produces poisons that cause severe illness.

Where does E. Coli come from?

E.Coli 0157:H7 is present in the intestines (and udders) of carrying animals and can enter the human food system in multiple ways:

• Through unpasteurized milk (via an udder of the producing animal).
• Through ground beef, trapped during packaging, and surviving in undercooked food eaten by humans.
• Through raw fruits and vegetables washed (or that have unknowingly come into contact) with dirty (sewage laden) water.
• Through sewage laden pool or lake water swallowed by humans.
• Through unwashed hands of humans.

What are the symptoms of E.Coli?

• Slight or no fever
• Stomach pain
• Bloody diarrhea

How is E.Coli diagnosed?

• E. Coli can only be diagnosed with a stool sample sent for laboratory diagnosis.

How is E.Coli treated?

• Antibiotics are not used for E.Coli treatment; most patients recover within 5 to 10 days.
• Patients (especially the very young and the elderly) need to be monitored for signs of dehydration.

What are the home remedies for E.Coli?

• None, in fact, self medicating with antibiotics or antidiarrheal medicines can make the disease worsen.
• Seek medical assistance if experiencing any of the symptoms of E. Coli, especially bloody diarrhea.

What are the long term effects of E.Coli illness?

• The duration of E.Coli illness in a treated individual is approximately 5 to 10 days without long term complications.
• 1 out of 3 patients that have experienced kidney failure during E. Coli illness will have kidney problems in later years.
• Long term complications of high blood pressure, blindness and paralysis have been reported and documented as well.

What do I do with recalled products?

• Immediately discard or return recalled products to the place of purchase.

How can I prevent E.Coli?

The CDC lists the following guidelines to proactively prevent the contraction of E.Coli:

• Cook all ground beef to 160 degrees (F) using a meat thermometer (washing thoroughly between use).
• Avoid all “cooked” ground beef that appears pink in color.
• Keep utensils used to prepare raw foods separated from other raw foods as well as cooked foods.
• Clean all utensils and preparation areas thoroughly between uses with hot, soapy water.
• Be vigilant in preparing raw meats and greens (ground beef, spinach and sprouts especially).
• Do not use the same plates for preparation prior to cooking and for serving post cooking.
• Drink only milks and juices that have been pasteurized.
• Do not swallow lake or pool water when swimming.
• Drink water from safe sources only.

Reference: Centers For Disease Control, Atlanta, GA

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