E. coli

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E. coli

E. coli (Escherichia coli) is a type of bacteria that normally lives in the digestive tract of humans and animals. Some kinds (strains) of E. coli can cause diarrhea and other digestive system (gastrointestinal) problems.

A few strains of E. coli bacteria (primarily a strain called O157:H7) can produce poisons (toxins) that can harm the intestines, blood, and kidneys. Bloody diarrhea commonly occurs when a person is infected with this strain of bacteria. A small number of infected people (especially small children and older adults) may develop serious, sometimes fatal, complications, usually from dehydration or severe blood and kidney problems.

Treatment of E. coli infection generally consists of managing complications, such as dehydration caused by diarrhea. Antidiarrheal medications are not used because they may slow the elimination of the toxin from the body and increase the risk of complications. Antibiotics also may be harmful in cases of E. coli infection.

The risk of illness from E. coli can be reduced by proper food preparation and storage and by careful hand-washing and other good personal hygiene habits.

Credits

Author	Jeannette Curtis
Author	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor	Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated	May 25, 2007

Last updated:	May 25, 2007
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

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