What is E. Coli?
Enterohaemorrhagic E. coli, or EHEC, is a type of Escherichia coli (E. coli). E. coli is a bacteria that is common in the guts of humans and other warm blooded animals. While most forms of E. coli are harmless, there are a few strains that can cause very serious foodborne illness. EHEC is one of the types that can cause serious illness.
EHEC Quick Facts
- EHEC were first identified as a public health risk in the early 1980s.
- Symptoms of the diseases caused by EHEC include abdominal cramps and diarrhea that may in some cases be bloody diarrhea (hemorrhagic colitis). Fever and vomiting may also occur.
- EHEC live in the guts of ruminant animals, including cattle, goats, sheep, deer, and elk. The major source for human illnesses is food that has been contaminated with feces from cattle.
- Infections start when you swallow EHEC—in other words, when you get tiny (usually invisible) amounts of human or animal feces in your mouth.
- The duration of excretion of EHEC is about one week or less in adults, but can be longer in children.
- Prevention tips: Wash and disinfect hands; Separate raw and cooked food and wash produce thoroughly; cook food thoroughly; avoid unsafe water; and store food at a safe temperature.