What is E Coli and where does it come from?

E coli is usually found in the intestines or bowel tract of humans and animals. This bacteria lives there without causing harm to the animal or individual. But living outside of the body and being ingested will cause much pain and discomfort to the infected person. Several strains of E coli exists and more are being found daily. The CDC is a great informational source when there appears to be an “outbreak” of Ecoli infections in your area.

Prevention and Protecting Your Family

Good hand washing techniques, taught to your children and you follow them yourself even if it means constantly reminding the family. If there is an infant or young child in the home I cannot stress how important hand washing is after each diaper change. It is passed from fecal to hand to mouth, so the importance of hand washing is impertinent. If you or your child is diagnosed with this disease the school or daycare must be notified so all children and care providers are checked.

Cook all beef until they are gray, this includes hamburgers that are pre made fresh or frozen, steak, roasts etc. No longer does the rule “rare”, “medium rare” exists, and all meats should not even be pink in the middle but should be cooked thoroughly.

Know where your fresh fruits and vegetables come from and the possible ways they can be contaminated, especially if they are exotic fruits or vegetables. Do not hesitate to ask at your fresh vegetable market where the merchandise comes from, your family’s health is more important than not being educated as to the origination of the food.

Wash all fresh foods. Foods such as potatoes, melons, etc. grow on the ground and can be contaminated with manure. There are new items out on the market that help you to wash the contaminants out of your fresh foods, these are usually found in your fresh food isle and well worth the cost.

Using a scrubbing technique is also a good idea.

If you or your children swim in a fresh water area, make sure with the health department that is has been checked and free of contaminants. You can do this by contacting the health department or asking at the swimming area itself.

Limit your amount of eating out time, unless you are sure of the sanitary practices of the restaurant or establishments.

Signs and Symptoms:

Usually but not always consists of no fever, severe diarrhea not stopped by anti diarrheal medications; bloody diarrhea and severe abdominal cramping are very common with this condition. A non-specific case of this disease will pass in 5 to 10 days. Contact your physician and try to think back at what your child has eaten in the past week and write it down.

In the elderly and young children this disease can become fatal if not treated with the proper antibacterial medication and possible hospitalization. This disease can cause hemolytic urmeic syndrome that can lead to kidney failure and ultimately death of the child or geriatric patient.

Disclaimer: This is not meant for sole medical advice, please contact your physician if you suspect you or your child are infected.