Escherichia coli NCTC 10418

How common are STEC infections ?

Experts think that there may be about 70,000 infections with E. coli O157 each year in the United States. We can only estimate because we know that many infected people do not seek medical care, many do not submit a stool specimen for testing, and many labs do not test for STEC. We think that a similar number of persons have diarrhoea caused by non-O157 STEC. Many labs do not identify non-O157 STEC infection because it takes even more work than identifying E. coli O157.

How are STEC infections diagnosed ?

STEC infections are usually diagnosed through lab testing of stool specimens (faeces). Identifying the specific strain of STEC involved is very important for public health purposes, such as finding outbreaks. Most labs can determine if an STEC is present and can identify E. coli O157. To determine the O group of non-O157 STEC, strains must be sent to a State Public Health laboratory.

How long can an infected person carry STEC ?

STEC typically disappear from the faeces by the time the illness is resolved, but may be shed for several weeks, even after symptoms go away. Young children tend to carry STEC longer than adults. A few people keep shedding these bacteria for several months. Good hand-washing is always a smart idea to protect yourself, your family, and other persons.

What is the best treatment for STEC infection ?

Non-specific supportive therapy, including hydration, is important. Antibiotics should not be used to treat this infection. There is no evidence that treatment with antibiotics is helpful, and taking antibiotics may increase the risk of HUS. Antidiarrheal agents like Imodium® may also increase that risk.