Blaby District Council

Summary

E. Coli 0157 is a germ that can cause mild diarrhoea or severe bloody diarrhoea. In young children, the elderly and people who are already sick, it can cause illness leading in some cases to kidney failure and possibly death.

Further information

How can I catch it?

• By eating undercooked food which is contaminated with the germ, especially meat, including beef-burgers.
• By drinking un-pasteurised (green top) milk also contaminated with the germ.
• From animals that may have the germ in their bodies.
• From someone who is suffering from the illness.

How does it cause illness?

Once the germs have been swallowed, they grow in the stomach. Symptoms usually start 3-14 days later.

How can I avoid it?

Cook minced beef and minced beef products (including beef-burgers) until the juices run clear and there are no pink bits inside and the middle of the thickest part reaches 75°C. Do not allow raw meat to come into contact with cooked foods. Do not drink un-pasteurised (green top) milk or eat foods made from un-pasteurised milk e.g. some cheeses or yoghurts.

How long does the illness last and is there any treatment?

The body should be able to remove the germs naturally. Antibiotics are not usually needed. Until you are fit and well, you may pass the germ onto other people, so you must be extra careful with your personal hygiene.

Whilst you have diarrhoea, drink plenty of fluids.

If urination becomes infrequent, contact your Doctor.

Is there anything I should do whilst I am ill?

Wash hands with soap in warm running water and dry thoroughly, especially when preparing food and after using the toilet. Avoid close contact with other people until the diarrhoea has stopped. Avoid preparing food for other people. Make sure everyone at home has their own towel and flannel. Clean toilet seats, flush handles, door handles and taps frequently with hot soapy water and disinfectant solution. Soiled clothes and bedding should be washed on their own in the washing machine on the hottest cycle.

Will I need to stay off work/school?

You must stay away from work or school until at least 48 hours after your first normal stool. However, if your work involves handling food, nursing or working with the young, sick or elderly or you are a child (age less than 5 attending nursery or play-group), you must have two negative stool samples.

Contact us

Officer / Team	Commercial Environmental Health Team
Postal address	Blaby District Council Council Offices Desford Road Narborough Leicester LE19 2EP
E-mail address	env.health@blaby.gov.uk
Telephone	0116 272 7555
Fax	0116 272 7594

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This page was last updated on 4th September 2009