Why it’s a Threat

E. coli causes an estimated 73,000 cases of infection and 61 deaths in the United States each year. Infection often leads to bloody diarrhea, vomiting, and occasionally to kidney failure.

Description

Gram-negative bacteria, straight rods approximately 0.5 micron wide and 2 microns long. Exists as a single organism, in pairs, or in short chains. May possess one or more flagella.

Vehicles

Cattle, deer, and sheep; may also be found in food products including undercooked or raw ground beef, produce, and raw milk.

Prevention

Consumers can prevent E. coli O157:H7 infection by thoroughly cooking ground beef, avoiding unpasteurized milk, and washing hands carefully.

Remarks

In about 6% of infections, the toxin produced by E. coli O157:H7 causes Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS), which harms the kidneys and may lead to the failure of other vital organs and death.

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