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Index of Diseases and Conditions: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

E. Coli Infections

E. coli is the name of a type of bacteria that lives in your intestines. Most types of E. coli are harmless. However, some types can make you sick and cause diarrhea. One type causes travelers' diarrhea. The worst type of E. coli causes bloody diarrhea, and can sometimes cause kidney failure and even death. These problems are most likely to occur in children and in adults with weak immune systems.

You can get E. coli infections by eating foods containing the bacteria. To help avoid food poisoning and prevent infection, handle food safely. Cook meat well, wash fruits and vegetables before eating or cooking them, and avoid unpasteurized milk and juices. You can also get the infection by swallowing water in a swimming pool contaminated with human waste.

Most cases of E. coli infection get better without treatment in 5 to 10 days.

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases


External Resources

What You Should Know About Escherichia Coli 0157:H7 - Fact sheet offering information and tips to avoid infection by this bacteria commonly known as E.Coli.

E. coli as a Pathogen - Discusses the diseases and infections the bacteria cause as well as the various phenotypic characteristics.

The Merck Manual: Escherichia Coli O157:H7 Infection - Features organism information, prevention, treatment, and epidemiology.

MedlinePlus: E. Coli Infections - Directory of links to information and news related to the disease.

Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome - Factsheet on this complication of some E. coli infections.

E. coli infects 14 people in Ohio - [CNN]

Second Sizzler in Wisconsin closed following more E. coli infections - [CNN]

Children infected with E. coli at petting zoo, officials say - [CNN]

Experimental drug offers hope of stopping E. coli infection - [CNN]


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Cytomegalovirus Infections
Ear Infections
Eye Infections
Fungal Infections
Giardia Infections
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