This E.coli outbreak has brought me back to the old thoughts which I have written in my previous blog entries on 2009 with title of “CPS bacteria, Broadway”
After 2 years up to date, this EHEC penetrate our life with their “stronger resistance capabilities”
Just would like to share with every one of you with this article published by my organization. Hope you will it useful & enjoy your reading :)
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The E. coli Outbreak in Europe: What you need to know
Current situation:
Since the second week of May, a large
outbreak of E. coli (EHEC) infections has
been reported in residents and visitors to
Germany. As of 12th June 2011, the
official death toll has climbed to 35. The
documented prevalence stands at 3256,
with 812 patients experiencing severe
symptoms. Most save a handful of the
patients affected have travelled to
Germany. The investigation into the exact
source of the outbreak is still under way
but contaminated food; possibly raw
vegetables are the suspected source.
The outbreak is unusual in that it has
developed very rapidly, and affected an
unusually high number of adults instead of
the normal high-risk groups such as
children or the elderly.
What is E Coli?
E. coli is a bacterium that is commonly
found in the gut of humans and warmblooded
animals such as cows. Most
strains are in fact harmless.
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About EHEC and HUS:
Enterohaemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC) is a
severe strain of the E. coli bacterium that
is commonly found in the gut of animals,
mainly ruminants. EHEC produces toxins
that can cause bloody diarrhoea, which
sometimes develops into haemolytic
uraemic syndrome (HUS)—a lifethreatening
disease characterized by acute kidney failure and blood
abnormalities.
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What are the symptoms of E. coli
infection?
Symptoms of infection follow that of food
poisoning and include severe stomach
cramps, diarrhoea (which is often bloody),
and vomiting. If there is fever, it usually is
not very high. Most people get better
within 5–7 days, but some patients go on
to develop HUS—usually about a week
after the diarrhoea starts. Symptoms of
HUS include decreased frequency of
urination, feeling very tired, and losing
pink colour to skin and membranes due to
anaemia.
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What precautions can I take?
Good food hygiene practices are advised
i.e. washing your hands after using the
toilet and before consuming food; to wash
food thoroughly with clean water,
especially if it is consumed raw; and to
avoid cross-contamination when preparing
food.
Although the source has not yet been
determined, authorities are advising
people as a precautionary measure, to
avoid eating raw tomatoes, fresh
cucumbers and leafy salads, in addition to
taking the usual hygiene measures in
handling fruit and vegetables.
Thorough cooking of un-cooked food to a
temperature of at least 70 oC will destroy
the bacteria.
Unlike other outbreaks, females and
adults account for a good portion of the
seriously ill cases. While there may be a
dietary preference link, we cannot be sure
at this point. All travellers should take the
same level of caution.
You may wish to visit your physician for
pre-travel advice and information. If
appropriate, standby medications (e.g.
oral rehydration salts) and vaccinations
may be prescribed for common travel
disorders and infections. There is
however, no specific prophylaxis or
vaccination against EHEC.
Consider purchasing travel insurance that
covers overseas medical and
hospitalization costs. You should clarify if
there are exclusions. Eg. Medical coverage for conditions arising from this
outbreak.
Watch for updates on the MOH websites.
Parkway will provide updates whenever
there are major developments.
What if I get diarrhoea?
You should maintain strict hand hygiene,
especially if in contact with small children
and immunocompromised people.
If you have severe or bloody diarrhoea
you should immediately seek medical care
and tell the doctor if you have been in
Germany recently.
Do not self-medicate for diarrhoea, or use
antibiotics, as these could make it worse.
If you are in or have had travel to northern
Germany recently, and experience
diarrhoea symptoms you should consult
your physician.
