How is E. coli O157:H7 spread?
Eating meat, especially ground beef that is not well done or cooked to 160 degrees Fahrenheit can cause infection. Livestock can have E. coli O157:H7 and show no signs of illness. Contaminated meat can look and smell normal. Among other known sources of infection are petting zoo s and animal exhibits that allow contact with animals, consuming improperly prepared sprouts, lettuce, salami, unpasteurized milk and juice, and swimming in or drinking contaminated water. Pets and livestock or humans suffering from diarrhea may contaminate water. Through improper hygiene, bacteria in human feces of infected people can be passed from one person to another. Proper hand washing is the most effective method of avoiding this source of infection.
