Escherichia Coli | E Coli.

• E Coli is a complex and large group of bacteria naturally found in the intestines of humans and people.
• Some E Coli bacteria are harmless and do not cause illness.
• Pathogenic stains will cause foodborne illnesses.
   

• E Coli can be found worldwide.
• Like most diseases/illnesses, E Coli is less common in areas that practice the safe production and preparation of raw food.
   

• The main source of infection comes from the consumption of contaminated raw vegetables, meats, and dairy.
• Some people may have the E Coli but are unaware and therefore unknowingly infect others.
   

• Pathogenic E Coli can cause diarrhea, urinary tract infections, respiratory sickness, and other infections.
• Nausea, vomiting, and stomach cramps are common as well.
• Symptoms only last for about a week or two but kidney and blood problems can occur after the initial symptoms pass and can cause kidney failure.
• If long lasting diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and vomiting occur, seek medical attention.
   

• Preliminary treatments are mainly rest and drinking plenty of fluids to counteract the dehydration and fatigue caused by diarrhea and vomiting.
• Avoid taking over the counter medications that are anti-diarrheal because they slow down your digestive system.
• Antibiotics are usually not used because they can cause more complications.
• Serious cases of E Coli require hospitalization.
   

• E Coli is contagious and spreads easily especially when a person does not wash their hands after a bowel movement.
• E Coli can also spread from touching objects that are contaminated.
• Control measures are extremely important during the farming, processing, manufacturing, and preparation of food and agriculture.
   

• Those who are around animals, especially livestock, are at a higher risk for injection.
• Make sure you wash your hands frequently and thoroughly if you work with animals.

Following the Five Keys to Safer Good Program can help keep you safe from pathogenic E Coli. The five steps are:

1. Keep Clean

2. Separate raw foods from cooked foods

3. Cook thoroughly

4. Keep food at safe temperatures

5. Use safe water and raw materials