What causes HUS?
HUS develops when Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria lodged in the digestive tract make toxins that enter the bloodstream and start to destroy red blood cells. Most cases of HUS occur after an infection of the digestive tract by the E. coli bacterium, which is found in foods like meat, dairy products, leafy greens and juice when they are contaminated. Some people have contracted HUS after swimming in pools or lakes contaminated with feces. Most people who suffer E. coli O157:H7 poisoning do not suffer HUS.
