Fact file: What is E. coli?

TORONTO – A beef processing plant that has been at the centre of a massive recall announced the temporary layoff Saturday of approximately 2,000 people.

The XL Foods facility has been idle since Sept. 27 while federal officials and the company deal with E. coli contamination that has been linked to 15 illnesses and has involved a recall of its products from across North America.

What is E. coli?

E. coli are bacteria that are commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals. There are different types of E. coli and while most are not harmful, E. Coli O157:H7 is a dangerous strain that can leave people very sick.

Who gets sick from E.coli?

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– Anyone who comes in contact with the bacteria can get sick from it but young children, the elderly and pregnant women along with people with weak immune systems are at the greatest risk.
– Up to 15 per cent of children who are infected develop Hemolytic Uremix Syndrome (HUS). This is a type of kidney failure and blood disorder.
– Most people with HUS recover within weeks but some people suffer permanent kidney damage.

How you can get sick from E. coli?

– By eating or drinking food or beverages contaminated by the bacteria
– Contaminated beef, raw and undercooked, ground and whole cuts
– Contaminated raw fruit and vegetables that are not cooked
– Unpasteurized (raw) milk and raw milk products
– Untreated water
– Through contact with cattle or other farm animals
– Through cross contamination between raw meat and other food during food preparation
– Through others carrying the bacteria without showing symptoms

What are the symptoms?

They usually start within three to four days but can occur up to 10 days later. They include:

– Severe stomach cramps
– Diarrhea
– Vomiting
– Nausea
– Headache
– Little or no fever

How do I protect myself?

– Cook food to a safe internal temperature
– Use a digital food thermometer to check the temperature of your food
– Eat and drink only pasteurized liquids and products
– Wash your hands after contact with animals and their environments
– Keep raw food away from other food while shopping, storing, preparing and serving food

Source: The Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care