Entry #6 Bacteria... The only culture some people have.

Every now and again news stories will pop up about vegetable and/or meat products that are infected with a bacteria known as Escherichia coli or E. coli.  2016 had three outbreaks of this bacteria. More information can be found by clicking the link below:

2016 Outbreaks

The questions many people have about E. coli go unanswered. Why is it dangerous? How can we avoid contaminated products? What do symptoms, treatment, and  prevention look like?

Have no fear. The answers to your questions are here.

Why be concerned about E. coli?
       E. coli by itself is actually a common normally occurring bacteria. It is found in most human and animal digestive tracts and on the skin. It is normally harmless. However, there are certain strains that exist that will produce toxins when they are destroyed by the immune system. These toxins are what scientists are concerned about in terms of illness and epidemics. The strain that produces this is known as E. coli 0157:H7, it can also be referred to as a STEC or a shiga toxin producing E. coli.
These shiga toxins can cause children and the elderly to develop Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome which can be deadly. Most healthy adults experience an illness that lasts 5-7 days.

Avoiding contaminated products and prevention
     E.coli bacteria can grow in a lot of places particularly food crops and around farm animals and other food related products. They can also be found in natural sources of water.
     Do not worry though. This bacteria can be easily avoided even in contaminated products. Ensure that non-homogenized/pasteurized dairy and juice products are avoided. Also by practicing good hand hygiene and by ensuring meats and foods are cooked at the appropriate temperature.

Symptoms and treatment.
     Most adults will experience mild fevers accompanied by severe diarrhea and vomiting. Secretions can also be bloody. The course of illness can be mild to severe and it is important to contact your doctor if symptons get worse as it might be a sign that you are developing hemolytic uremic syndrome.
     The CDC presents the following guidance:
Contact your healthcare provider if you have diarrhea that lasts for more than 3 days, or is accompanied by high fever, blood in the stool, or so much vomiting that you cannot keep liquids down and you pass very little urine.



On an interesting side note, this is what E. coli looks like on a MacConkey growth agar.