Can E. coli O157:H7 be passed to a baby or other members of my family?
Bacteria in diarrheal stools of infected persons can be passed from one person to another if the patient and family members do not properly wash their hands with soap and water before eating and using the bathroom or otherwise maintain good hygiene. This is particularly likely among toddlers who are not toilet trained. Family members and playmates of these children may be at high risk of becoming infected. Young children typically shed the organism in their feces for a week or two after their illness resolves. Older children rarely carry the organism without symptoms. To prevent transmission to a baby, infected individuals should avoid direct contact with infants and toddlers.
