How is E. coli 0157:H7 spread?
E. coli 0157:H7 can be found in the intestines of healthy cattle. Meat can become contaminated as a normal part of the slaughtering process. Eating raw or undercooked meat contaminated with E. coli 0157:H7 can cause infection. Bacteria present on a cow’s udders or on equipment can also get into raw milk. Consumption of raw (unpasteurized) milk may also result in infection. Other known sources of E. coli 0157:H7 infection are consumption of contaminated foods such as sprouts, unpasteurized juice, dry cured salami, and contaminated water. Bacteria in stools of infected persons can be passed from one person to another if hygiene or hand washing habits are inadequate. This type of spread is especially likely in young children who are not toilet trained. It is also likely that family members and playmates have a much higher risk of becoming infected. Careful attention to good hand washing and hygiene will help prevent others from getting infected. E. coli 0157:H7 is usually cleared from an
