What is Escherichia coli (E. coli)?
Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria normally live in the intestines of healthy people and animals.
Most types of E. coli are harmless or cause relatively brief diarrhea. But a few strains, such as E. coli O157:H7, can cause severe stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea and vomiting.
You may be exposed to E. coli from contaminated water or food.
Healthy adults usually recover from infection with E. coli O157:H7 within a week. Young children and older adults have a greater risk of developing a life-threatening form of kidney failure.
The risk group also includes people with weak immunity.
Symptoms of an Escherichia coli infection usually appear within 3-4 days of exposure to the bacteria. However, it is quite possible that you will show symptoms on the day of infection.
Signs and symptoms include:
- Diarrhea, which may range from mild and watery to severe and bloody
- Stomach cramping, pain or tenderness
- Nausea and vomiting, in some people
Contact your doctor if your diarrhea is persistent, severe or bloody.
E. coli bacteria is easily transferred from one person's body to another, and especially when an infected adult or child does not wash their hands with soap, that is, the main rule of personal hygiene is violated.
No vaccine or medication can protect you from E. coli-based illness, though researchers are investigating potential vaccines. To reduce your chance of being exposed to E. coli, avoid swallowing water from lakes or pools, wash your hands often, avoid risky foods, and watch out for cross-contamination.
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/e-coli/symptoms-causes/syc-
20372058
