E. Coli is a bacteria that naturally lives in the intestines of people and animals. However, certain strains of E. Coli can cause intestinal infection that can lead to further complications in people with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, young children, and the elderly.
While most cases of E. Coli are mild and can be treated at home, it is important to know how it spreads to prevent infection. In a recent article, Healthline lists the most common causes for E. Coli, including:
- Improper food handling
- Food processing
- Contaminated water
- Person to person
- Animals
Symptoms of E. Coli typically appear between 1 and 10 days after contact with the bacteria. Although infection is sometimes hard to avoid, being aware of the causes and symptoms can help prevent further contamination and infection.