Escherichia coli O157:H7

E. coli O157 is a pathogenic strain of the bacterium E. coli, virulence of which depends on the production of toxins (Shiga like toxins). The pathogen causes severe bloody diarrhea (even though the absence of blood is not an uncommon feature) and abdominal pain. Fever is usually absent. Symptoms usually last 5-10 days. In infants and elderly people the bacterium may cause renal failure and red cell destruction. Transmission may occur through the consumption of contaminated pork or beef (frequently minced meat), fruit, vegetables and water. The bacterium has also been isolated from raw milk, dairy products, beverages and cold cuts.