What are the symptoms of E. coli? Here’s how to protect yourself from the potentially fatal disease
Public Health England (PHE) is currently investigating a surge in E. coli O157 cases
AFTER two people died as a result of the ongoing E. coli outbreak, it's vital to brush up on the deadly disease and learn what its symptoms are.
Public Health England (PHE) is currently investigating a surge in E. coli O157 cases, which have so far affected 151 people, mainly in the South West.
The disease, which may have been spread by imported Mediterranean salad leaves, can infect people if they eat any food contaminated with the bacteria.
And sufferers can then spread the illness through contact with other people, especially if they don't stick to good hygiene practices such as regular hand washing.
Symptoms of the infection include diarrhoea, stomach cramps and occasionally fever, according to the NHS.
Bloody diarrhoea will affect around half of the people who contract the bacterial infection, with symptoms commonly emerging three to four days after the initial infection - although they can begin sooner that that.
The symptoms, which last for up to two weeks, can develop into a serious condition called haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS) in some E. coli sufferers, although this is rare.
HUS, which is most likely to occur in children under five, can result in kidney failure and death, although not everyone infected even displays any symptoms of the disease.
At a glance: E. coli O157 symptoms
- Bloody diarrhoea affects around half of sufferers, whilst stomach cramps and fever can also be symptomatic of the disease
- Symptoms usually take around three to four days after the initial infection to emerge
- Side effects of the disease can last for up to two weeks
- In rare cases, patients can develop a serious condition which can result in kidney failure and death, with under-fives most vulnerable
- However, not everyone infected with the disease even gets symptoms at all
You can prevent the spread of E. coli in your home by taking some simple precautions, such as washing your hands thoroughly and regularly with soap.
Disinfecting surfaces in your home and cleaning bathrooms and door handles is likely to reduce the risk of infection.
Thoroughly washing any vegetables and salads is also likely to reduce the risk of the disease spreading.
Sufferers with the disease will usually get better in their own time, with no specific treatment available for E. coli infections.
advises sufferers to drink plenty of water, and says parents should contact their GP or dial 111 as soon as possible if they notice that their child has bloody diarrhoea.