The list of bacteria that pose a great threat to the human body is very long. Escherichia coli, also known as coli or colon bacteria, definitely belongs to this group. Bacteria found in our body play a positive role, but very often there is an imbalance, which threatens not only health, but also human life, like coliforms. What is e coli, how can you get infected and what should you know about this dangerous bacteria?
What is e coli
Escherichia coli (bacterium e. Coli) is a bacterium that is useful for our body when it is part of the bacterial flora of the large intestine and corresponds to, among others for the distribution of food consumed. However, its detection in water or soil can have serious consequences. In this way, the bacterium, which is part of the normal flora of our intestines, has revealed its dangerous face.
The majority of E. coli strains pose no threat to most people. A very characteristic feature of Escherichia coli (bacterium e. Coli) is its ability to reproduce at an astronomical rate. If she could provide her with the right amount of food – in 3 days she could create a mass larger than the globe. This property of the microorganism makes it very useful in biotechnology and scientific research, but on the other hand it is a potential threat to humans. The ability to multiply quickly also means it can cause disease.
Symptoms of infection
As mentioned earlier, E. coli in water is a big threat, which is why prevention and proper hygiene are so important. Cola bacteria in water are not very durable and die already at 60 degrees Celsius, so it is recommended to boil the water to be drunk, thoroughly wash fruit and vegetables preferably in hot water. E. coli in water or left on everyday objects is not resistant to disinfectants, which is why it is so important to use the right cleaning products.
What symptoms can E. coli cause in water that enters the human body?
- the most common symptom is vomiting
- diarrhea appears
- the patient suffers from abdominal cramps
In some cases, high fever, headaches and dizziness appear. Symptoms cause weakness and dehydration. it is not recommended to treat yourself and for ailments that last longer than three days, ask a specialist for consultation. However, before visiting, it is worth buying anti-diarrhea, painkillers or agents that minimize dehydration at the pharmacy.
To avoid all these severe consequences, hygiene should be observed both during the preparation and consumption of food. Cooked and raw products must be stored in the kitchen separately. Vegetables and fruits should be thoroughly washed with lukewarm running water, also after peeling. Wash your hands before every meal and after leaving the toilet. Water of unknown origin can be drunk only boiled, do not eat undercooked and undercooked meat.
