What is E.coli O157?
E.coli is the abbreviated name of the bacteria called Escherichia coli, that are a normal inhabitant of the large intestine of mammals and birds. The human intestine contains many bacteria necessary for us to maintain a normal and healthy life. However, certain strains of E.coli known as verocytotoxin-producing E.coli (VTEC) , produce a potent poison, or toxin, which causes illnesses ranging from mild diarrhoea through to very severe inflammation of the gut. Occasionally this can cause complications such as kidney failure, and anaemia. The most important toxin-producing strain associated with human illness is known as E. coli O157.
