Guide To Understanding E. Coli And Preventing An Outbreak

Symptoms Of E.Coli

Symptoms of E.coli range from moderate to life-threatening, depending on the strain contracted. Symptoms of an intestinal infection begin between one to ten days after being contracted, and once symptoms appear, they can last between five to ten days. Moderate symptoms include abdominal cramps, gas, severe watery diarrhea that can change into bloody stools, loss of appetite, nausea, fever, fatigue, and vomiting. Severe symptoms include dehydration, bloody urine, decreased urination, pale skin susceptible to bruising, and possible seizures.

According to the CDC, approximately five to ten percent of those who become infected develop hemolytic uremic syndrome, leading to kidney failure, especially for the most vulnerable: children and the elderly. If all of these symptoms are present, consult a doctor immediately. What are the main sources of E.coli, and how is it contracted?

Sources Of The Infection

There are various ways to contract E.coli; specific foods, such as meat and dairy, are a major common source. Ground meat cooked improperly can carry E.coli, as it may contain bacteria from the intestines of multiple animals. Unpasteurized milk, which has not been heated to a regulated temperature to kill bacteria, can have E.coli contracted from the cow’s udder or milking equipment. Other predominant sources are produce contaminated by water that has come in contact with livestock and animal manure; other unpasteurized foods and beverages, such as fruit juices, yogurt, and cheese; water; other infected people; and animals.

Individuals can also contaminate their own food if they have not taken the proper precautions to sanitize knives, cutting boards, or kitchen utensils. What are some of the ways to prevent these sources of infection from spreading?