What are the symptoms of E. coli infection?
Bloody or non-bloody diarrhea Abdominal cramps Little or no fever Symptoms usually begin 3-4 days (range of 2-10 days) after exposure and last for approximately 5-10 days. Some people may only have mild diarrhea without blood or no symptoms at all. An infected person can pass the bacteria in their stool for up to 3 weeks after their symptoms have stopped. Approximately 8% of people infected with E. coli (O157 and other shiga-toxin producing strains) can develop a condition called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). This condition is very serious and can lead to kidney failure and death. Children under 5 years of age and the elderly are more likely to develop this condition. How do I know if I have E. coli infection? A person having diarrhea lasting longer than 24 hours or having bloody stool should immediately consult a health care provider. The health care provider may collect a stool, urine, or blood sample to test for E. coli. How is E. coli infection treated? Most people recover witho
