Massive E. Coli Outbreak Spreads through Europe, Hundreds Sick

Massive E. Coli Outbreak Spreads through Europe, Hundreds Sick
An unprecedented outbreak of a rare and aggressive strain of E. Coli has spread from Germany through much of Europe, with at least 16 deaths confirmed so far.An E. coli outbreak that is being traced back to cucumbers, tomatoes, lettuce and other vegetables is spreading at an alarming rate across Northern Germany and into other European countries. Well over 400 people have been diagnosed with enterohaemorrhagic E. coli, or EHEC. This particular strain of E. Coli is much more severe than standard E. Coli and attacks the kidneys, with the potential to cause seizures, strokes and comas.

"It's extraordinary to see so many cases of the kidney complication from a foodborne illness," said Dr. Robert Tauxe, a foodborne disease expert from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States. "There has not been such an outbreak before that we know of in the history of public health."

Because the strain of E. coli is so virulent and it managed to find its way to grocery stores and supermarkets in Germany, officials throughout Europe and around the world are now monitoring food production and distribution channels to ensure that more outbreaks do not occur.

Officials have noted that the strain has primarily infected adults, at a rate of 86% of all confirmed infections - and that nearly two-thirds of the infected adults are women. The fact that more children have not been impacted is somewhat surprising, given that a typical E. coli strain would have a more immediate effect on the immune system of a child than an adult.
By Buzzle Staff and Agencies
Published: 6/1/2011