VTEC (E. Coli 0157:H7)

(from the Canadian Institute of Public Health Inspectors)

What is E.coli 0157:H7?

E. coli are bacteria that are commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals. There are different types of E. coli, some of which are not harmful to people and some which cause serious illness. It is commonly known as "Hamburger Disease".

Verotoxin producing Escherichia coli (VTEC) are bacteria that can cause symptoms such as stomach cramps, vomiting, fever and diarrhea which may go from watery to bloody. After the bacteria are ingested it can take as little as 12 hours or as long as 3 to I 0 days before symptoms start. The illness usually lasts 7 to 10 days. This infection is strongly associated with Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS), a leading cause of kidney failure in the elderly and young children. Symptoms of HUS may include irritability, fatigue, paleness of the skin, puffiness around the eyes and ankles, and a decrease in the amount of urine produced. It is important to watch for symptoms of HUS in a child even after a child’s diarrhea starts to clear up.

How E. coli 0157:H7 Infections Happen?

E.coli 0 1 5 7:H7 bacteria infects the intestine of cattle. When animals are slaughtered the bacteria contaminate the outer surface of the meat. The bacteria are further mixed into the meat during the grinding process. This is why it is sometimes called "hamburger disease". E.coll 0157:H7 infections can be spread by many food sources such as undercooked ground beef, unpasteurized milk and apple cider, ham, turkey, roast beef, sandwich meats, raw vegetables, cheese and contaminated water. Once someone has eaten contaminated food, this infection can be passed from person-to-person, by hand-to-mouth contact (fecal-oral route). Poor hand washing and improper food handling are factors that lead to the spread of this illness.

How Do You Prevent E.coli Infections?

• Thorough hand washing is the best prevention. Make sure hands are properly washed after using the toilet, handling diapers, pets, livestock or before preparing food.
• Clean and sanitize counter tops and utensils after contact with raw meats raw meats and poultry.
• If possible, separate work areas and utensils for preparing raw and cooked foods.
• Cook ground beef thoroughly to an internal temperature of 7O⁰C or until the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink.
• Drink only pasteurized milk and apple cider. Never let youngsters sample milk directly from the animal.
• Keep cold foods at 4O⁰C or lower. Keep hot foods at 6O⁰C or higher.
• Wash all fruits and vegetables before eating.
• Drink water from a safe supply.
• If ill with diarrhea, avoid preparing or handling food.

For more information, contact your public health department.