Many of you might have heard the news about the new strand of E.coli which has struck down 7 people in the UK and sadly killed 18 people across Europe. Unfortunately E.coli can be contagious and is normally spread when an infected person fails to take proper hygiene measures, such as washing their hands. We hope the information provided here will help you understand what E.coli is, while also learning how to prevent E.coli from entering your home.

Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a type of bacteria common in human and animal intestines, and forms part of the normal gut flora (the bacteria that exist in the bowel). There are a number of different types of E. coli and while the majority are harmless some can cause serious food poisoning and serious infection.

The symptoms depend on the site of infection and which type of E. coli is causing the infection. Symptoms can included severe stomach cramps, vomiting, and diarrhoea that may be bloody. The symptoms usually last up to seven days if there are no complications, but some infections can be severe and may be life threatening.

While all ages are at risk, children may be more vulnerable to severe infections and complications because they cannot tolerate much fluid and blood loss through vomiting and diarrhoea.

The specific treatment will depend on the type of infection. Intestinal infections by E. coli are not usually treated with antibiotics either. Rehydration is important as a lot of fluid may be lost through diarrhoea. This is the mainstay of treatment and important whether the infection is being managed in hospital or at home. Oral rehydration solutions are particularly helpful in children with diarrhoea. In addition to providing fluids they also replace other important substances lost from the body, including sodium, potassium and glucose.

E. coli infections can be serious so preventing infections is important. The bacteria are usually spread through faecal matter reaching the mouth, so good hygiene is critical in preventing contamination and spread. This is particularly important with regards to going to the toilet or handling or preparing food as consumption of contaminated food or water and contact with infected faeces or animals are common sources of infection.

The usual hygiene rules apply, including the need to wash and dry hands thoroughly after going to the toilet and after touching animals (for example, at farms). Foods should be cooked thoroughly and it is best to avoid unpasteurised dairy products.

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Information on E.coli provided by: http://www.nhs.uk