What strains of E. coli have been found in the flood waters caused by Hurricane Katrina?
The E. coli bacteria that were measured in flood waters after Hurricane Katrina are not the strain that causes disease. They are the harmless bacteria that exist in the intestines of all people and animals. These are called generic E. coli . These studies did not find E. coli O157, a harmful bacteria, in the waters. How did the E. coli get into the flood waters? Generic E. coli is normally found in all streams, lakes and canals. When there is flooding along with a hurricane, the waters may contain fecal material from overflowing sewage systems and agricultural and industrial waste. It is likely that there are also disease- causing organisms in such contaminated water. What can be done to prevent infection from water contaminated with sewage? • Leave the flooded zone • Avoid swallowing contaminated water • Drink municipal or bottled water that has been treated with chlorine or other effective disinfectants. If bottled water is not available, boil water before drinking, washing, or using
