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E. Coli Infection From Food or Water

Condition Basics

What is an E. coli infection?

E. coli (Escherichia coli) is the name of a germ, or bacterium, that lives in the digestive tracts of humans and animals. There are many types of E. coli, and most of them are harmless. But some can cause bloody diarrhea. Some strains of E. coli may also cause severe anemia, Opens dialog or kidney failure, which can lead to death. Other strains can cause other infections.

What causes it?

You get an E. coli infection by coming into contact with human or animal feces. This can happen when you drink water or eat food that's contaminated by feces. Or it can happen when you come in contact with an infected person who hasn't washed their hands well after a bowel movement.

What are the symptoms?

You may have symptoms like bloody diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting. Symptoms usually start 1 to 4 days after you came in contact with E. coli. But some people don't notice any symptoms. If the infection is more serious, you may have a fever or other symptoms.

How is it diagnosed?

If your doctor thinks you may have an E. coli infection, they will ask you questions about your symptoms and do a physical exam. Your stool will probably be tested for E. coli.

How is an E. coli infection treated?

An E. coli infection usually goes away on its own. Your main treatment is to make yourself comfortable and drink sips of water to help prevent dehydration. In some people, the infection causes serious problems with the blood and kidneys. These people may need blood transfusions, Opens dialog or dialysis, Opens dialog.

Can you prevent it?

There are things you can do to prevent an E. coli infection. For example, cook ground meat to at least 160°F (71°C). Wash tools or kitchen surfaces that have touched raw meat. Use only treated, or chlorinated, drinking water. Wash your hands often, especially after handling raw meat and using the bathroom.

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Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

 

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