Ashima Sharda Mahindra • 27 Oct 2024
Major E.coli Outbreak In The US: Ways To Steer Clear Of The Deadly Bacteria
When a particular food item is handled and processed - from the farm to restaurant or grocery store, it undergoes various temperature changes which make it prone to bacteria growth
A major E. coli outbreak in the US has sickened almost 100 people and killed one person – serving as a reminder that even fresh foods can be contaminated by bacteria – so eating out needs to be done with a lot of care. According to food safety experts, you must totally avoid particular raw fruits and vegetables like sprouts, bagged salad greens, and cantaloupe.
How does E. coli infection spread with fresh food?
Even though the investigation into the McDonald’s E. coli outbreak is ongoing – as federal officials suspect slivered onions are likely to be the source behind the episode – for all those who specialize in foodborne illness prevention, it is not surprising.
Experts say when a particular food item is handled and processed - from the farm to restaurant or grocery store – it undergoes various temperature changes which make it prone to bacteria growth.
How to reduce the production of bacterial on fresh foods?
According to experts, apart from avoiding packed greens and fresh vegetables – you must also have a proper look at the condition of the food that is on display. Any leafy vegetable that has torn or damaged leaves - just throw it away because that is how the bacteria can get in it.
Also, make sure to wash and dry the veggies once you get them home.
Never buy cut fruits as they become a common breeding ground for pathogens - especially if they are left sitting out for long.
What is E. coli?
E. coli is a group of bacteria that can cause infections in your gut, urinary tract, and other parts of your body. Most of the time, it can live in your gut without hurting you, but a few strains can make you sick with watery diarrhoea, vomiting, and a fever. Shiga toxin-producing E. coli is most likely to cause severe illness.
According to experts, the risk of E. coli, particularly for young children and those over 65 years of age, or anyone with a compromised immune system, including those who are pregnant – is extremely high.
Signs and symptoms of E. coli infection
According to doctors, you may develop symptoms of an STEC infection within three to five days after drinking or eating foods contaminated with E. coli bacteria. Other strains can make you sick within hours. Sometimes, symptoms start up to 10 days after exposure. A few of these include:
- Watery or bloody diarrhoea
- Stomach pains and cramps
- Loss of appetite
- Low fever
- Abdominal or pelvic pain
- Pain or burning sensation when you pee
- An urgent need to pee frequently
- Cloudy, foul-smelling pee
Is E. coli contagious?
According to doctors, E. coli can be contagious, and while you may not get it from sneezing or coughing, you can have the infection from caring for someone with the bacteria - especially if you come in contact with their poop.
You can also get it from objects, surfaces, or food someone with an E. coli infection has touched if they don’t wash their hands well enough.
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