The Best Ways to Stop E. Coli

Living in the digestive tract of humans and animals is the germ or bacterium known as E. coli. An E. coli infection occurs within the digestive tract from eating foods or drinking water that were contaminated with E. coli infected human or animal stool. Both children and adults are susceptible to an E. coli infection; those who suffer from it can have severe stomach pains and gastrointestinal distress. According to WebMD, this bacteria that lives in the intestinal tract is harmless, but strains, such as enterohemorrhagic E. coli, cause gastrointestinal issues and have led to anemia or kidney failure in extreme cases.

Meat

• E. coli is most common in meat. Meat can become contaminated during its processing, and when the meat is not cooked fully, the bacteria remain present to infect anyone who eats it. Cook meats to an internal temperature of at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit to kill off any bacteria. You should also refrigerate or freeze meats after purchase and make sure that the meats you buy at the store are cold.

Dairy

• Dairy products also can be contaminated with E. coli bacteria. The bacteria remain on a cow's udders and can spread to the milk during processing. Always use pasteurized milk, cheese and egg products to prevent E. coli exposure. The pasteurization process heats all dairy products to a specific temperature, which kills any bacteria present.

Fruits and Vegetables

• As with meats and dairy products, fruits and vegetables can also be exposed to E. coli by coming into contact with infected water. Thoroughly wash all fruits and vegetables after bringing them home from the store.

Swimming

• E. coli also survives in contaminated water sources such as lakes, swimming pools and ponds. Make sure that the areas you or your children swim in are tested for E. coli on a regular basis. Avoid ponds and lakes used heavily by animals or located close to farms, since water can come into contact with animal feces and thus contract E. coli.