Escherichia coli

The Escherichia coli (E. coli can be abbreviated) is a large and diverse group of bacteria. While most varieties of E. coli are harmless, others can cause disease. Some kinds of E. coli can cause diarrhea, while others cause urinary tract infections, respiratory illness, pneumonia and other diseases. Still other types of Escherichia coli are used as markers of contamination in the water. You can listen on the finding of Escherichia coli in drinking water, which in itself may be harmless, but it is an indicator of contamination.
Treatment

The treatment with non-specific therapy, including hydration, is important. Antibiotics should not be used in treatment. There is no evidence that treatment with antibiotics help, and use could increase the risk of hemolytic uremic syndrome. Agents against diarrhea, as Imodium ®, might also raise the risk.

Prevention

Infection with infection by toxigenic Escherichia coli Shiga can be prevented in the following ways:
* Wash hands thoroughly after using the bathroom, changing diapers, and before preparing or eating food.
* Wash your hands after contact with animals in their environment (farms, zoos, fairs).
* Avoid unpasteurized dairy products.
* Avoid swallowing water while swimming in lakes, ponds and pools.