”[21]  The hemorrhagic colitis caused by E. coli O157:H7 is characterized by severe abdominal cramps, diarrhea that typically turns bloody within twenty-four hours, and sometimes fever.[22]  The typical incubation period—which is to say the time from exposure to the onset of symptoms—in outbreaks is usually reported as three to eight days.[23]  Infection can occur in people of all ages but is most common in children.[24]  The duration of an… [read post]

For example, produce has, since 1991, been the source of substantial numbers of outbreak-related E. coli O157:H7 infections.[27] Other unusual vehicles for E. coli O157:H7 outbreaks have included unpasteurized juices, yogurt, dried salami, mayonnaise, raw milk, game meats, sprouts, and raw cookie dough.[28] According to a recent study, an estimated 93,094 illnesses are caused by domestically acquired E. coli O157:H7 each year in the United States.[29] It is estimated that foodborne acquired O157:H7… [read post]