About Escherichia coli Infection | E. coli infection | CDC

E. coli are germs called bacteria. They are found in many places, including in the environment, foods, water, and the intestines of people and animals.

Most E. coli are harmless and are part of a healthy intestinal tract. E. coli help us digest food, produce vitamins, and protect us from harmful germs.

But some E. coli can make people sick with diarrhea, urinary tract infections, pneumonia, sepsis, and other illnesses. These dangerous types of E. coli are:

• STEC: Shiga toxin-producing E. coli
• ETEC: Enterotoxigenic E. coli
• EPEC: Enteropathogenic E. coli
• EIEC: Enteroinvasive E. coli
• EAEC: Enteroaggregative E. coli
• DAEC: Diffusely adherent E. coli

People can get infected after swallowing E. coli.

This can happen through contaminated food or water or contact with animals, environments, or other people.

Some people are more likely to get infected.

Groups of people who are at increased risk for E. coli infection include:

• Children younger than 5
• Adults 65 and older
• People with weakened immune systems
• International travelers

E. coli infection can be serious.

Infection with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) can lead to a serious health condition called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). HUS can lead to kidney failure, permanent health problems, and even death.

E. coli infection can be prevented.

The good news is that you can take steps to help keep yourself and your family safe.

• Handwashing is one of the best ways to protect yourself and other people from getting sick
• Only use safe drinking water (don't swallow water when you go swimming)
• make sure your milk is safe to drink