In this Article

• What is E. coli?
• What is E. coli 0157:H7?
• What are the complications of infection with E. coli 0157:H7?
• How do people get E. coli 0157:H7?
• What are the symptoms of E. coli 0157:H7 and how is it diagnosed?
• What is the treatment for E. coli 0157:H7?
• How can you prevent infection from E. coli 0157:H7?
• E. Coli 0157:H7 At A Glance
• E. Coli 0157:H7 Glossary
• E. Coli 0157:H7 Index

How can you prevent infection with E. coli 0157:H7?

The following precautions are recommended.

Handle raw meat correctly

• Put raw ground beef (hamburger) in the refrigerator or freezer as soon as possible until ready to use.
  
  
• Thaw frozen meat by putting it in the refrigerator or in the microwave.
  
  
• NEVER thaw meat at room temperature.
  
  
• Wash everything touched by raw meat with warm soapy water.
  
  
• Wash work surfaces, dishes, utensils, and your hands.

Be careful with hamburger

• Cook burgers thoroughly. The inside of the patty should not be pink. If it is, cook the burger longer. When you cut it, the meat should not be pink and the juice should be clear.
  
  
• In a restaurant, order burgers cooked "medium well" or "well done." If you see pink or if the juice is not clear, send the burger back to the kitchen for additional cooking.

Do not drink raw milk or eat raw milk products

• Avoid raw milk and raw milk products. Raw milk is not healthier.
  
  
• Consume only pasteurized milk and milk products.

Know where your water is coming from

• Drink water from a well only if you know it's free from contamination.
  
  
• Do not drink untreated water from streams or lakes.

Wash your hands

• Wash your hands with soap and water before and after handling food. It cuts the risk of spreading E. coli (and other germs).
  
  
• Be sure children wash their hands carefully and often.

Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

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• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI In Adults) - Learn about urinary tract infection causes, symptoms, signs, diagnosis and treatment of UTIs in men and women. Antibiotics may be used to treat recurrent bladder infections.

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