Some of us remember our school lessons, when we learned that bacteria Escherichia coli (E. coli) is normally found in our intestines.
However, you have surely heard, especially recently, of numerous cases of urinary tract infections or food poisoning caused by E. coli, some of which have even been fatal.
How can E. coli be both harmless and harmful at the same time?
The main reason is that there are many different types of E. coli, known as strains. The differences between them are so significant that some can coexist with normal intestinal flora, while others can be dangerous if they enter our bodies or even just reach the urinary tract.
Another well-known and scientifically proven reason is that a healthy gut microbiota can regulate the activity of E. coli bacteria and prevent the rapid growth and spread of pathogenic strains in the digestive tract.
Antibiotic treatments destroy the normal flora, which acts as a protective barrier. It has been shown that the intestinal microflora takes about 6 months to recover. Without the use of an effective adjuvant to rapidly restore the flora, immunity is significantly weakened during and after antibiotic treatment. As a result, the body becomes susceptible to bacterial strains with low virulence.
Intestinal pathogenic E. coli strains primarily cause serious digestive disorders, characterized by episodes of diarrhea. For example, the O157:H7 strain (EHEC) can cause acute bloody diarrhea and kidney damage (hemolytic uremic syndrome). Those most affected are people with weakened immune systems, children, and the elderly.
These pathogenic strains of E. coli are transmitted through the consumption of food contaminated with fecal matter. For this reason, it is recommended that:
· Wash our hands thoroughly before and after preparing food;
· Cook food at high temperatures (above 80°C), especially animal-based foods;
· maintain good hygiene in the kitchen and bathroom;
· Drink water only from safe sources.
Urinary tract infections These are the most common infections worldwide, particularly among women, and in 90% of cases they are caused by E. coli. These infections present with pain in the abdominal and lower back regions, frequent and painful urination, a burning sensation during urination, and even fever.
The "culprit" bacteria travel from the intestines (where they cause no symptoms) to the bladder via traces of feces and attach themselves to the urinary tract using structures called fimbriae.
That is why maintaining good hygiene in the genital area is very important. In addition, it is advisable to wear loose-fitting cotton underwear, go to the bathroom as soon as you feel the urge, and drink plenty of fluids.