It is one strain of the E.coli bacteria that lives in the gut of healthy cattle that can cause severe illness in humans. An infected person can pass the bacteria in their stool for up to 2 weeks after their symptoms have stopped. These people can transmit the bacteria to others if they do not wash their hands well after using the toilet. Childcare centers are at risk for person to person spread because of the high number of kids who are not toilet-trained. Family members and playmates of these children are also at risk of infection.
Infection often causes severe bloody diarrhea and stomach cramping with little or no fever.
Symptoms usually last for approximately 5 to 10 days. Some people may only have mild diarrhea without blood OR may have no symptoms at all. This condition is very serious with red cell destruction and the condition can lead to kidney failure and death. Always wash hands with soap and water before eating. Drink only pasteurized milk products and fruit juices.