What causes E. coli?

Contaminated food

Ground beef: When cattle are slaughtered and processed, E. coli bacteria in their intestines can get on the meat. Ground beef combines meat from many different animals, increasing the risk of contamination.

Unpasteurised milk: E. coli bacteria on a cow’s udder or on milking equipment can get into raw milk.

Fresh produce: Runoff from cattle farms can contaminate fields where fresh produce is grown.

Contaminated water: Human and animal faeces may pollute ground and surface water, including streams, rivers, lakes and water used to irrigate crops.

Personal contact: E. coli bacteria can easily travel from person to person, especially when infected adults and children don’t wash their hands properly.

How is E. coli treated?

No current treatments can cure the infection, relieve symptoms or prevent complications. For most people, the best option is to rest and drink plenty of fluids to help with dehydration and fatigue. Avoid taking an anti-diarrheal medication — this slows your digestive system down, preventing your body from getting rid of the toxins.

 

How do you prevent it?

Avoid pink hamburger and undercooked ground beef.

Drink pasteurised milk, juice and cider.  Wash raw produce thoroughly.  Avoid cross-contamination. Use hot soapy water on knives, countertops and cutting boards before and after they come into contact with fresh produce or raw meat.

Keep raw foods separate. This includes using separate cutting boards for raw meat and foods such as vegetables and fruits.

Wash your hands. Wash your hands after preparing or eating food, using the bathroom or changing diapers. Make sure that children also wash their hands before eating, after using the bathroom and after contact with animals.—Www.mayoclinic.com