Escherichia coli (E. coli) O157

Introduction

Escherichia coli O157, sometimes called VTEC, is a bacterial infection that can cause severe stomach pain, bloody diarrhoea and kidney failure.

E. coli O157 is found in the gut and faeces of many animals, particularly cattle. It is an uncommon cause of gastroenteritis but can be caught by:

Eating contaminated food (such as raw leafy vegetables or undercooked meat). Always wash all vegetables (including salad leaves) that will be eaten raw,unless they have been pre-prepared and are labelled ready to eat.Washing may reduce the risk of infection, but will not eliminate any risk of infection completely.
Touching infected animals or accidentally coming into contact with their faeces.
Contact with people who have the illness , particularly if you do not wash your hands thoroughly after using the toilet or before handling food.
Drinking water from inadequately treated water supplies.
Swimming or playing in contaminated water , such as ponds or streams.

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Jul 2016

Articles for escherichia coli (e. coli) o157

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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