FAQs - E. coli

Facts of E. coli E. coli symptoms E. coli enteritis is a type of bacterial gastroenteritis. The symptoms are a result of toxins or bacterial invasion into the intestine. The incubation period (the time it takes for the germ to cause illness) is 24 - 72 hours. In adults, the infection is usually not severe. However, in children and infants, the infection frequently requires hospitalization and in some cases is life-threatening. www.nlm.nih.gov E. Coli Infection -- familydoctor.org E. coli is short for Escherichia coli -- a germ that causes severe cramps and diarrhea. E. coli is a leading cause of bloody diarrhea. The symptoms are worse in children and older people, and especially in people who have another illness. E. coli infection is more common during the summer months and in northern states. familydoctor.org Foodborne E. coli ...While there are many types of E. coli bacteria, only certain types cause foodborne illness. Hundreds of harmless strains of E. coli can be found widely in nature, including the intestinal tracts of humans and other warm-blooded animals. Disease-causing strains, however, are a frequent cause of both intestinal and urinary-genital tract infections... www.niaid.nih.gov E. coli Test A stool specimen is tested for the presence of E. coli O157:H7. If a child has the hemolytic-uremic syndrome due to E. coli 0157:H7, or an elderly person develops thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, further tests are done. www.medicinenet.com E. coli Treatments There is no special treatment, except drinking a lot of water and watching for complications. Don't take medicine to stop diarrhea unless your doctor tells you to. This medicine would keep your intestines from getting rid of the E. coli germ. If you are seriously dehydrated, you might need to go to the hospital to have fluids put into your veins with an IV. familydoctor.org E. coli: Dangers of eating raw or undercooked foods A recent nationwide outbreak of the most deadly form of Escherichia coli (E. coli) raises concerns about food safety. Learn more about E. coli and what you can do to reduce your risk of illness. www.mayoclinic.com Insurance Compare Insurance Quotes From Top Insurers. How to Select Life Insurance? Health Insurance Tips? Learn more about Long Term Disability Income Insurance? Learn More Short Term Disability Insurance? Auto Insurance? Homeowners Insurance?