There are certain things you do and foods you eat that can put you at risk for E. coli infection. Here's what you need to know.

 

A harmless bacteria—or is it?

Escherichia coli or E. coli, is the name given to a group of bacteria naturally found in the intestines of healthy humans and animals (such as poultry and livestock). This group of bacteria is responsible for infections of the urinary and digestive tracts, among others.

To avoid an E. coli infection, it is essential to understand how these bacteria can infect you and cause symptoms. Sometimes food recalls are issued because of possible E. coli contamination. During meat processing, the methods used can allow the bacteria to spread. Eating or handling contaminated meat can lead to infection. Raw fruits and vegetables can also become contaminated with the bacteria in the fields through contact with improperly composted manure or contaminated water, wildlife or farm workers. When a source of contamination is identified, a recall is conducted to prevent multiple people from becoming infected.

Most strains (varieties) of E. coli are safe for humans. However, some can cause infections that can make people very sick. While many infected people experience only mild symptoms (such as stomach upset or diarrhea), others experience more serious consequences, including death.

This type of infection is contracted especially by the consumption of contaminated foods. This mainly occurs when a person ingests:

• raw or undercooked ground meat
• raw milk or raw milk cheese
• raw fruits or vegetables
• unpasteurized juice or cider
• untreated drinking water

The infection can also be contracted through direct contact with a sick person or animals that are carriers of the bacteria.

 

Symptoms of the E. coli infection

In general, symptoms of the E. coli infection usually begin within three to four days of exposure to the bacteria; however, the incubation period can vary, ranging from 1 to 10 days.

Symptoms of E. coli infection include:

• severe abdominal cramps
• diarrhea
• nausea
• vomiting
• headaches, and
• fever

If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, speak to a healthcare professional about how to treat them. They are not always caused by E. coli bacteria, but you will need advice on how to treat them properly, especially since some of the more serious complications of E. coli bacteria may require more urgent medical attention.

Some of the more serious complications of E. coli infection include hemolytic uremic syndrome (or hamburger disease), kidney failure, seizure and stroke.

 

How to avoid infection

To avoid E. coli infection, certain measures must be taken by all parties—farm operations, slaughterhouses, manufacturers, butchers, and families—during the process leading to the consumption of meat or food at risk. Appropriate personal hygiene habits and precautions taken to prepare and handle food are essential to prevent the spread of E. coli bacteria.

As a consumer, here is some advice that should be followed to reduce the risk of contamination:

• Wash your hands thoroughly before preparing or eating food.
• Do not eat raw ground meat.
• Ensure that the meat you eat is adequately cooked.
• Avoid eating unpasteurized foods.
• Wash fruits and vegetables well before preparing and eating them.
• Do not rely on the smell, taste or appearance of food to check whether or not it is contaminated (contamination often goes undetected).
• Keep raw meat away from ready-to-eat foods. Wash your hands and clean counter surfaces and utensils with warm soapy water after any contact with raw meat.
• Restrict contact with people or animals contaminated with the bacteria.

Remember that your pharmacist is always there to help you and to answer your questions regarding health-related issues!