Important Health Alert: E. coli Outbreak

Written By: Michael Larsen

There is an outbreak of E. coli O157:H7, causing hospitalizations among young children in our community. This strain spreads through fecal-oral contact, and poor hygiene practices increase the risk of transmission.

Symptoms

Common: Most children and adults will experience a few days of mild Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms such as diarrhea (most common), GI upset, and vomiting. The majority will recover fully but can still spread the bacteria.

Severe: A portion of small children with an E. coli O157:H7 infection will develop hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) and may require hospitalization. HUS can cause serious complications such as long-term kidney or brain injury in some kids.

Fatal: Although most hospitalized children recover, there is a risk of fatality for children who develop HUS.

Signs to Watch For

If your child develops any combination of lethargy, lack of energy, severe dehydration, bloody stools, fever, or persistent vomiting, seek medical attention immediately as these could be signs of HUS (hemolytic uremic syndrome). 

Current Situation

It is estimated that many members of the community are carrying this bacteria currently. Although other forms of diarrhea are also spreading, if you have diarrhea, assume you could be carrying this high-risk strain of E. coli unless you test negative. Even after diarrhea symptoms resolve, some children remain contagious for up to a few weeks.

Prevention Measures

Hand Hygiene: Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water is crucial. Do this after using the bathroom, changing diapers, before eating, and during food preparation.

Teach Children: Parents should ensure all their kids practice these handwashing techniques. Do not allow younger children to change a baby’s diaper, especially if there is diarrhea.

Extra Care in Daycares: Daycare centers should take extra care with hygiene, especially around diaper changing. Use disposable gloves when changing diapers and clean all surfaces after each use with sanitary wipes that kill germs. Ensure all kids in your daycare practice proper hand hygiene

Food Preparation: Always wash hands thoroughly before preparing food and bottles. Ensure helpers do the same. 

Here are two useful videos demonstrating proper hand washing techniques:

Things to Do

If Your Child Has Diarrhea

If your child has diarrhea but is staying hydrated and relatively active, you can treat them at home with hydration, probiotics, and a BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast). To prevent spreading bacteria, have your child avoid activities like preparing food and swimming. Practice strict hand hygiene and consider getting them tested for E. coli by their doctor. It is advisable to keep them home until they test negative. If you have concerns or questions, contact your child's doctor for guidance.

Testing

Your doctor can order a test for E. coli O157:H7. You do not need to test for E.coli if you have not had symptoms recently.

If your child tests positive for E. coli O157:H7

If your child tests positive for E. coli, follow medical advice. Ensure they stay hydrated and monitor their symptoms. Seek medical attention if they show signs of HUS (listed above). Continue strict hand hygiene and keep them home until they have two consecutive negative E. coli tests to ensure they are no longer contagious. Some small children can continue to be contagious even after the diarrhea resolves.

Special Note for the 4th of July

With upcoming celebrations, it’s especially important to practice proper hand hygiene when preparing and serving food to prevent contamination. If you or your family have diarrhea, consider staying home this week to prevent spreading the bacteria to others.

Hand hygiene will be a cost-effective way to prevent further hospitalizations. Thank you for your attention.