What do we understand under Escherichia coli?
About a thousand of different strains of Escherichia coli (E.coli) can be found on earth. Most of E. coli strains are found in the lower intestine of warm-blooded organisms and are harmless. Some strains though, called VTEC strains, are able to produce toxins and present a particular health risk because they can cause serious illness, even with a very low contamination level.
Not all the E. coli strains cause a disease. In fact, most strains can benefit their hosts by producing vitamins and preventing the growth of other pathogenic bacteria. Since E.coli is commonly found in the intestine of humans and animals, it is used as an indicator of fecal contamination in the food industry. Routine tests do not allow to make a difference between strains: when a sample tests positive for E.coli, it could as well be a pathogenic strain as a non pathogenic strain.
What’s the effect of the bacteria?
After a 3 to 9 day incubation period, the bacteria can cause belly aches, bloody diarrhea, vomiting and dehydration symptoms. Symptomatology can last up to 2 weeks. In severe cases, the infection can cause renal insufficiency, cerebral hemorrhage and death.
What to do in case of suspicion of E. coli infection?
You need to call your doctor as soon as possible.
What can I eat ?
You can eat everything as long as it’s prepared correctly.
You can consult: www.afsca.be -> publications -> publications thématiques -> “La sécurité alimentaire, l’affaire de tous”
Are cucumbers, tomatoes, lettuce and young sprouts more dangerous?
No, you can eat these raw or cooked, as long as you follow common hygiene directions and prepare them properly.
You can read: www.afsca.be -> consommateurs-> « Cinq clés pour une alimentation sûre »
Are other raw vegetables dangerous?
No, as long as you follow common hygiene directions and prepare them properly.
You can read: www.afsca.be -> consommateurs-> « Cinq clés pour une alimentation sûre »
What about meat?
You can eat all types of meat as long as you prepare the meat correctly.
You can read: www.afsca.be -> publications -> publications thématiques -> “La sécurité alimentaire, l’affaire de tous”
A trip to Germany?
Follow the instructions given by the German authorities.
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Last update on
08.03.2016
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Escherichia coli in Germany
