What is E.coli, a bacteria that caused a deadly outbreak in the United States?

Recently, a lethal E.coli outbreak in the United States put consumers of one of the most recognized hamburger brands in the country on alert.

The outbreak has affected almost 50 people in 10 states in the country. Unfortunately, one person died.

Faced with this, the company reaffirmed that it has food safety practices, as well as strict hygiene measures for food handling, which is why none of the government’s findings have found problems in its dishes.

In this sense, Escherichia coli, better known as E.coli, It is a bacteria that commonly lives in the intestines of healthy people and animals. In fact, in most cases its presence does not present complications or symptoms.

The problem arises with some specific strains, which can cause stomach upset in those affected. The most common symptoms are nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, fatigue and fever.

However, the worst strain of E. coli causes hemorrhagic diarrhea and can sometimes cause kidney failure and even death.

In most cases, people get the infection by eating contaminated food or drinking water. For example, ground meat, unpasteurized milk, or fresh vegetables such as spinach or lettuce.

In the same way, The bacteria can spread from person to person if those infected do not wash their hands properly.

However, the prognosis is quite positive, as most patients recover from the disease without needing treatment in about a week.

Some preventive measures are

• Handle food with appropriate hygiene measures
• Cook the meat well, until it is heated to at least 71 degrees Celsius at its thickest point.
• Wash fruits and vegetables before eating or cooking them
• Avoid unpasteurized milk and juices
• Do not drink water in spaces contaminated with human waste (that is, in bodies of water such as lakes or swimming pools)
• Wash cutlery, plates and glasses with hot water and soap
• Keep raw foods separate
• Wash your hands before handling any type of food or eating

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