Treated wtih cephalosporins, but there are resistant strains. Severe diarrhea 2. Spread by food, fingers, flies, feces. Potent exotoxins inhibit protein synthesis and kill cells in the large intestine 4. About 40,.000 to 50,000 cases a year in US, with 500 -2000 deaths.
Mortality rate is worse in tropical areas.
Fig 25.10, 25.11 1. Bacteria grow in masses on the lining of the intestine and produce an exotoxin that results in secretion of electrolytes. Travelers diarrhea - some strains of E. coli bind to intestinal epithelia and produce an enterotoxin. Also causes infant diarrhea in developing countries, producing a Shigella like activity. Cattle may be reservoir.