E. Coli Research Paper

Escherichia coli also known as E. Coli, is a type of bacteria which thrives in polluted water. Many people will come in contact with this type of bacteria in their lifetime. In fact, E. coli is normally found in the intestine of humans and animal where it plays a significant role in the digestive system. The bacteria can also be found in raw meat and uncooked vegetables as well as polluted water. Most of the strain of E. coli are harmless therefore they will not cause illness if consumed. “One of hundreds of strains of the bacterium Escherichia coli, E. coli O157:H7 is an emerging cause of food borne and waterborne illnesses” (freedrinkingwater). This by far the most dangerous strand of E. coil. This type of d bacteria is often release from the intestine into water sources by fecal route. “When these waters are used as sources of drinking water and the water is not treated or inadequately treated, E. coli may end up in the drinking water” (freedrinkingwater). After consuming E. coli polluted water, people will show several signs of intoxication.
coli. According to freedrinkingwater, some of the moderate symptoms of E. coli include bloody diarrhea, stomach cramps whereas the severe symptom is Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome. These symptoms may appear in about a week of intoxication. Anyone can acquire this bacteria, however children and the elder are at higher risk of contracting it. E. coli is mostly common in low and middle income countries such as India or Congo. Many citizens from under developed nation do not have adequate access to clean water. This predisposes them to unsafe water. One can avoid contracting E. coli by boiling water before consuming it. Moreover, “Avoid swallowing lake or pool water while swimming” (freedrinkingwater). A person infected with E. coli should seek medical help, Antibiotic are available for