E.coli infection (ETEC)
Some Escherichia coli are enterotoxigenic (ETEC) which means that they produce toxins and cause diarrhoea type disease. Enterotoxigenic E. coli is the most common cause of travellers’ diarrhoea and has also caused several food borne outbreaks in Western countries.
Transmission: Is through food or water contaminated with human or animal faeces. Person-to-person transmission may also occur, but is likely to be less common.
Manifestations:
The disease gives:
- Watery or bloody diarrhoea
- Abdominal cramps
- Fever
Diagnosis and treatment: E. coli is found in stools. Treatment is not normally recommended but is available. Basically re-hydration is needed.
Vaccination: Vaccination against cholera gives protection against ETEC.
Prevent ETEC by:
- Drink only water that you have boiled or treated with chlorine or iodine.
- Other safe beverages include tea and coffee made with boiled water and carbonated bottled beverages with no ice.
- Eat only foods that have been thoroughly cooked and are still hot
- Eat only fruit that you have peeled yourself.
- Avoid undercooked or raw fish or shellfish.
- Make sure all vegetables are cooked
- Avoid salads.
- Avoid foods and beverages from street vendors.
- Vaccine
Information Only
The content above is for information purposes only and we have tried to ensure that the information is as accurate as possible. We cannot accept any responsibility for any inconvenience, loss or injury as a result of the information above. You should always check and verify any critical information like visas, health and safety and customs with the relevant authorities before you travel since information can change at any time.
