What is E. coli?

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About E. coli:

Escherichia coli, commonly known as E. coli, is a type of bacteria that can be found in the intestines of humans and animals.
E. coli is a rod-shaped bacterium of the Enterobacteriaceae family.
While most strains of E. coli are harmless and even beneficial, some strains can cause illness and infections.
Some kinds of E. coli can cause diarrhea, while others cause urinary tract infections, respiratory illness and pneumonia, and other illnesses.
Transmission: It can be transmitted to humans through contaminated food, water, or contact with fecal matter from infected individuals or animals.
How does E. coli make you sick?
- The most familiar strains of E. coli that make you sick do so by producing a toxin called Shiga.
- This toxin damages the lining of your small intestine and causes diarrhea.
- These strains of E. coli are also called Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC).
Symptoms:
- The most common symptoms of E.coli infection include fever of more than 102 degree F, persistent diarrhoea, bloody diarrhoea, and vomiting.
- The main problem, however, is dehydration due to the inability of the patient to retain water and fluids.
- In very few cases, people may get acute kidney injury.
Treatment: Most E. coli infections are self-limiting and resolve on their own without treatment. However, it’s essential to stay hydrated during the course of the illness.

Q1: What is Bacteria?

Bacteria are microscopic single-celled prokaryotic organisms that play a crucial role in the ecosystem and have a significant impact on human health. Bacteria can be found all over the world, including the top of the mountains or the deeper trenches in the oceans.

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