What is E. coli?

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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