E. coli are a diverse group of bacteria that normally live in human and animal intestines.
Some types are harmless but others can make people seriously ill.
The variety in this outbreak, Shiga-toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) O145, can attack the gut’s lining.
Symptoms usually take a few days to develop and can include:
Most people recover well but some – such as young children or people with underlying health conditions – can become very unwell.
There is no specific treatment for E. coli infections.
Those infected can usually be cared for at home and most will recover without medical treatment.
It is important to drink plenty of fluids, as diarrhoea can lead to dehydration.
A small number may go on to develop serious complications, including haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS), which can damage the kidneys.
People should seek medical help if worried.
To reduce the risk of infection:
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Regularly wash your hands with warm water and soap — alcohol gels do not kill all bugs that cause diarrhoeal illness
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Wash fruit and vegetables and cook food to the temperatures suggested
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If you have symptoms, do not prepare food for others or visit people in hospitals or care homes
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Do not return to work, school or nursery until 48 hours after symptoms have stopped
