E. coli O157:H7 is one of thousands of serotypes Escherichia coli.[1] The combination of letters and numbers in the name of the E. coli O157:H7 refers to the specific antigens (proteins which provoke an antibody response) found on the body and tail or flagellum[2] respectively and distinguish it from other types of E. coli.[3] Most serotypes of E. coli are harmless and live as normal flora in the intestines of healthy humans and… [read post]

”[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 fevers.[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 uncomplicated illness can range… [read post]

”[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]

 When pasteurization started to become more mainstream early last century, some people were suspicious of the technology. [read post]