Facts About E. coli

What is E. coli?

E. coli bacteria are found naturally in the intestines of animals such as cattle and poultry, as well other animals. E. coli can be acquired by eating contaminated food. The bacteria live in the intestines of some healthy cattle and contaminate the meat.

Eating meat that is not properly cooked is the most common way of getting the infection. Person-to-person transmission can occur if infected people do not wash their hands before and after handling raw foods. If someone becomes infected with E.coli they can become seriously ill.

What are the symptoms of an E. coli infection?

Symptoms can appear within hours and up to 10 days after consuming the bacteria. The most common symptoms include severe abdominal pain and bloody diarrhea (hemorrhagic colitis). The majority of people recover within 7 to 10 days. Some people infected with the bacteria may not experience symptoms, but can still carry the bacteria and spread the infection to others. If you think you are infected with E. coli, you should not prepare food for other people as people who are infected with E. coli are very contagious.

Who is most at risk?

Everyone is susceptible to E. coli infection; however, the elderly, infants, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems are most at risk for developing serious complications.

How can I lower my risk of exposure to E. coli bacteria?

You can avoid becoming infected with E. coli by taking proper precautions in preparing and handling food. Do not eat food that isn’t properly cooked.

Click here for safe food handling tips