. "B CATALOG OF EMERGING INFECTIOUS DISEASE AGENTS." Emerging Infections: Microbial Threats to Health in the United States. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press, 1992.
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Emerging Infections: Microbial Threats to Health in the United States
Escherichia coliO157:H7
DISEASE(S) AND SYMPTOMS
Hemorrhagic colitis; hemolytic uremic syndrome
DIAGNOSIS
identification of antibodies to O157:H7 serotype
INFECTIOUS AGENT
Escherichia coli O157:H7, a bacterium
one of several ''EHEC" (enterohemorrhagic E. coli) strains
EHEC bacteria produce potent cytotoxins, called Shiga-like toxins 1 and 2
cattle are believed to be the reservoirs of EHECs
MODE OF TRANSMISSION
ingestion of contaminated food, typically poorly cooked beef and raw milk
transmission by direct contact may occur in high-risk populations
DISTRIBUTION
probably worldwide
most cases have occurred in North America and Europe
INCUBATION PERIOD
12 to 60 hours
TREATMENT
oral replacement of fluids and electrolytes (intravenous if necessary)
PREVENTION AND CONTROL
proper cooking of meat
hand washing
proper sewage and water treatment
FACTORS FACILITATING EMERGENCE
probably spread of a bacterial virus carrying the gene for Shiga-like toxin production into the otherwise unremarkable host, E. coli O157:H7
