Escherichia coli (E. coli) O157
Treatment and care at home
There is no specific treatment for E. coli O157 infection. People who are infected can usually be cared for at home and most will get better without medical treatment.
It is important to drink plenty of fluids, as diarrhoea can lead to dehydration.
You should contact your GP or call NHS 111 as soon as possible if you or your child has bloody diarrhoea.
Antibiotics are not recommended, and may increase the risk of complications.
Anti-diarrhoea drugs such as loperamide (Imodium) are also not recommended as they may prolong your exposure to the toxin.
Find out more about caring for a child with gastroenteritis and caring for an adult with gastroenteritis .
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
NHS Choices information on Escherichia coli (E. coli) O157, a bacterial infection that can cause severe stomach pain, bloody diarrhoea and more serious complications.
Symptoms of E. coli O157 infection
Symptoms include diarrhoea, stomach cramps and occasionally fever. About half of people with the infection will have bloody diarrhoea. People usually notice symptoms three to four days after they hav
Treatment and care at home
There is no specific treatment for E. coli O157 infection. People who are infected can usually be cared for at home and most will get better without medical treatment. It is important to drink plenty
How to prevent E. coli O157 from spreading at home
Strict hygiene measures are essential to stop others getting infected. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap in running water and dry them completely . Use liquid soap and warm water if you can. E
Returning to work or school
Anyone who has had an E. coli O157 infection should stay away from work or school until they have been completely free of symptoms for 48 hours. Most people are no longer infectious after about a wee
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