Aragon has registered two new cases of Escherichia coli this week, one in the province of Zaragoza and another in Huesca, as reported by the Epidemiological Bulletin of the Government of Aragon. Specifically, these are two cases of Escherichia coli – better known as E. coli – which produces Shiga or Vero toxin (STEC/VTEC). These are a group of bacteria capable of producing toxins that can cause intestinal infections, some of them serious. Although many strains of E. coli are usually part of the intestines of people and animals and are harmless, these variants can cause disease by producing the so-called Shiga toxin.
Contagion occurs mainly through contaminated food or water. Possible sources include undercooked beef, raw milk or products made from unpasteurized milk, and contaminated fruits or vegetables. Ruminants, especially cattle, are one of the main reservoirs of these bacteria. Infection can also occur through direct contact with carrier animals or, less commonly, from one infected person to another.
Symptoms usually appear three to eight days after exposure and can include severe abdominal pain or cramping, vomiting, and diarrhea, which in some cases may contain blood. The severity of the infection varies, and many people recover in about five to seven days. However, a serious complication called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) can develop in some patients, which can affect the kidneys. Children and older people are at increased risk of developing severe forms of the disease.
In terms of treatment, there is no specific therapy for STEC infection and the focus is mainly on relieving symptoms and preventing dehydration through fluid replacement. Antibiotics are not widely advised as they can increase the risk of the disease becoming severe and developing hemolytic uremic syndrome. In more severe cases, hospital care may be necessary to monitor possible complications.
