08/18/26 Public Health Education Topic: STEC/HUS
- Health Department
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Per CDC:
Key points
E. coli are bacteria found in many places like the intestines of people and animals.
Most kinds of E. coli are harmless, but some can make you sick.
This site focuses on the kinds of E. coli that cause diarrhea.
Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is very serious complication of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) infection.
It can lead to kidney failure, permanent health problems, and even death.
Seek medical care immediately if you notice signs of HUS.
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.
What to look out for
Signs that someone with diarrhea may be developing HUS include:
Urinating (peeing) less often or not at all
Losing pink color in cheeks and inside the lower eyelids
Unexplained bruising or tiny red spots on the skin
Having blood in the urine (pee)
Feeling very tired or irritable (cranky)
Decreased awareness (alertness)
***People with HUS should be hospitalized because their kidneys may stop working and they may develop other serious problems. Most people with HUS recover within a few weeks, but some suffer permanent health problems or die.
Prevention:
The best ways to prevent infection are by keeping your hands clean, preparing food safely, and drinking safe water.
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