With recent E. coli outbreaks linked to certain foods, it’s important to stay informed about the products you buy and eat, as well as how to recognize symptoms and know when to seek proper care.
E. coli, or Escherichia coli, is a type of bacteria commonly found in the environment, foods, and intestines of people and animals. While most strains are harmless and part of our normal gastrointestinal tract, some can cause serious illness.
How Does E. Coli Make You Sick?
Infection typically occurs through oral contamination, meaning you have to ingest something contaminated with E. coli. This can happen through:
- Contaminated food or water
- Contact with animals or their environments
- Person-to-person contact, though this is less common unless there is direct contact with fecal matter
Food can become contaminated at any stage of the production chain, from growth and processing to distribution and preparation, before it ends up on our table.
Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Attention
Symptoms of an E. coli infection can include:
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Fever
- Chills
- Dehydration
- Vomiting (less common)
If you experience severe symptoms like bloody diarrhea, high fever, or signs of dehydration (such as dizziness or reduced urination), it's important to seek medical attention promptly.
Prevention Tips
To reduce the risk of E. coli infection:
- Wash your hands thoroughly, especially after using the bathroom or handling food
- Avoid consuming recalled foods
- Ensure meats are cooked thoroughly
- Keep raw foods separate from ready-to-eat foods
What to Do If You Get Sick
If you suspect you have an E. coli infection:
- Stay hydrated with water and electrolyte solutions
- Avoid preparing food for others to prevent spreading the bacteria
- Monitor your symptoms and seek medical care if they worsen or if you experience severe symptoms
What Are the Severe Symptoms?
If you’re experiencing diarrhea accompanied by a fever that isn’t improving after two or three days, or if it’s getting worse, it’s important to reach out to your primary care provider. While vomiting isn’t as common, if it becomes severe enough that you can’t keep down any liquids, it’s time to visit the emergency room.
“The main red flags to watch for are fever, bloody diarrhea, and dehydration. If you’re able to keep food or liquids down, that’s a good sign,” says Alejandra Mendoza, MD, an infectious disease physician at University of Utah Health. “If it’s just loose stools and you’re still managing your day-to-day activities, you’re likely okay and don’t need to rush to the ER.”
Severe diarrhea can lead to dehydration, which poses significant risks, especially for children and older adults. Signs of dehydration include reduced urination, a persistently dry mouth, or feeling dizzy when standing up. If you notice these symptoms, don’t delay seeking medical care.
Long-Term Effects
Most people recover from E. coli infections without long-term effects. However, certain groups, such as young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems, are at higher risk for complications like kidney failure.
By staying informed about outbreaks through the CDC and taking simple steps to protect yourself, you can lower your risk of E. coli infection.
