What is the treatment for infection with E. coli?
Most people recover without antibiotics or other specific treatment in five to ten days. Scientific studies have not yet determined whether antibiotics are useful or harmful in the treatment of E. coli infection ,therefore, antibiotics are not recommended. What complications can result from infection with E. coli? In some people, particularly children under five years of age, the infection can cause a complication called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). This is a serious disease in which red blood cells are destroyed and the kidneys fail. Transfusions of blood or blood clotting factors as well as kidney dialysis may be necessary. A prolonged hospital stay is often required. Fortunately, most people with HUS recover completely, but it can be fatal. How can infection with E. coli be prevented? • Make sure infected people, especially children, wash their hands carefully with soap after using the toilet to reduce the risk of spreading the disease. It is also important that caregivers wash
