What Is E. Coli?

E. coli is also known as Escherichia coli. It is a bacteria which resides mainly in the intestine of human beings. It helps in the digestion of food. However, when it causes infection it leads to inflammation of intestine causing enteritis.

It spreads by contaminated water, fruit, milk and meat. Farms, nursing homes and hospitals are the major sites through which infection can spread. As these areas have human and animal feces. Half cooked burgers are the main source of infection of E.Coli. Acute diarrhea, stomach cramps and gas formation are the main symptoms of E.Coli infection. It may also lead to abdominal pain, fever, vomiting and loss of appetite. The diagnosis of infection occurs by stool culture. First two days are very important for collection of stool. An individual with E.Coli infection must be hospitalized and electrolyte balance must be checked. Lots of fluid intake helps the patient to overcome this infection. It is a contagious infection so the children, nurses and day workers must be screened regularly.

Cleanliness is the best way to prevent the infection which includes washing of hands before and after taking meals, proper handling of raw meat. These steps should also be followed by proper cooking of meat.

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