Rising Homework in Bavaria: Strategies to Safeguard Against Contamination

In recent months, Germany has seen a significant rise in cases of Enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) infections. The regions most affected include Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and Hamburg, with Mecklenburg-Vorpommern reporting around 43 cases since mid-August and Hamburg around 113 cases this year. This is a stark contrast to previous years, highlighting the urgency of preventive measures.

EHEC is a bacterium that can cause severe intestinal infections. The first symptoms of EHEC infection usually appear two to ten days after infection and include severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and watery to bloody diarrhea. In severe cases, the Shiga toxin can reach the bloodstream, leading to kidney failure, anemia, and neurological complications.

The strain of E. coli (Escherichia coli or Ecoli) naturally occurs in the intestines of ruminants. EHEC infections are often transmitted to humans via manure used as fertilizer on fields, rainwater, and irrigation systems, direct animal contact, and contaminated food or polluted water.

The increase in EHEC infections has resulted in several cases in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, with four children and one adult affected. Haemolytic-uraemic syndrome (HUS), a possible consequence of EHEC infection, is the most common cause of acute kidney failure in young children.

The Robert Koch Institute is closely monitoring the EHEC situation. To prevent EHEC infections, consumers should practice thorough hygiene, including implementing measures to reduce the risk of infection on both the household and agricultural levels. This includes washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly, cooking meat properly, and maintaining good personal hygiene, especially after contact with animals.

The rise in EHEC infections underscores the importance of these preventive measures. It is crucial to protect vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems who are at a higher risk of developing serious complications from EHEC.

As the number of EHEC infections continues to rise, it is essential to remain vigilant and follow the guidelines for prevention. By doing so, we can help reduce the spread of this potentially dangerous bacterium and protect the health of our communities.