The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an alert over a lethal bacterial infection, warning the public about the dangers of Escherichia coli, commonly known as E.coli.
The NHS explains that E.coli, found in food, the intestines of animals and people, and the environment, is often harmless. However, it can be divided into two groups: those that can produce Shiga toxin, known as Shiga toxin-producing E.coli (STEC) - including E.coli O157 - and those that cannot produce Shiga toxin.
STEC causes more severe illness
STEC are known to cause more severe illness than E.coli that does not produce the Shiga toxin. Symptoms can include severe stomach pain, bloody diarrhoea, and kidney failure.
The UKHSA said: "Bacteria like E.coli are a significant cause of gastrointestinal illness. Diarrhoea and vomiting can typically be managed at home. Make sure you rest, and drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration."
It continued: "E. coli (Escherichia coli) bacteria are commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals. While many strains exist harmlessly in the digestive system, others may cause infections, including gastrointestinal illness. The bacterium is present in poo and can survive in the environment."
Symptoms and risks
Symptoms often do not occur immediately and can take up to four days to appear. They include diarrhoea, stomach pain, vomiting, fever, and bloody diarrhoea.
Some people become infected but don't develop symptoms, known as asymptomatic carriage. Others - usually children - come down with a serious, life-threatening condition called haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS). Symptoms of HUS include peeing less, pee that is pink or brown in colour, tiredness, swelling, and bruising.
This can sometimes lead to kidney failure and death, although this is rare. The risk of HUS is highest in children aged under five years of age. Contact your GP immediately if you notice bloody diarrhoea from your child.
What to do
For many people with a STEC infection, there is no treatment other than to stay at home and stay well hydrated on water or squash. Rest as much as possible, eat when possible - avoiding fatty or spicy foods - and take paracetamol if needed.
Avoid fruit juice or fizzy drinks, as these can exacerbate diarrhoea, while anti-diarrhoeal medication for children under 12 years and aspirin for children under 16 years is also not advised. Diarrhoea typically resolves within 5 to 7 days, while vomiting usually stops within 1 to 2 days.
Wash hands frequently, clean surfaces, stay away from work or school, and do not visit others to limit the spread. Avoiding public swimming pools for a minimum of 48 hours after symptoms go is also advised.
