E. coli infection (ETEC)

Some Escherichia coli are enterotoxigenic (ETEC) which means that they produce toxins and cause diarrhoea disease. Enterotoxigenic E. coli is the most common cause of travellers’ diarrhoea and have also caused several foodborne outbreaks in the western countries.

Transmission is through food or water contaminated with human or animal faeces. Person-to-person transmission may also occur, but is likely to be less common.

Manifestations:

The disease gives:

• Watery or bloody diarrhoea
• Abdominal cramps
• Fever.

Diagnose and treatment: E. coli is demonstrated in stools. Treatment is not normally recommended but is available. Rehydration is needed.

Vaccination: Vaccination against cholera gives protection against ETEC

Prevent ETEC by

• Drink only water that you have boiled or treated with chlorine or iodine.
• Other safe beverages include tea and coffee made with boiled water and carbonated bottled beverages with no ice.
• Eat only foods that have been thoroughly cooked and are still hot
• Eat only fruit that you have peeled yourself.
• Avoid undercooked or raw fish or shellfish.
• Make sure all vegetables are cooked
• Avoid salads.
• Avoid foods and beverages from street vendors.
• Vaccine

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