Milwaukee E. Coli Lawyer

E. coli, short for Escherichia coli, is a bacterium commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals. Though most strains are harmless and crucial for a balanced gut microbiome, some can be dangerous and lead to serious illnesses.

Types of E. coli

The main types of E. coli are:

• Enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC): Causes traveler’s diarrhea.
• Enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC): Often leads to diarrhea in children.
• Enteroinvasive E. coli (EIEC): Causes dysentery-like symptoms.
• Enteroaggregative E. coli (EAEC): Associated with persistent diarrhea.
• Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC): Also known as verocytotoxin-producing E. coli (VTEC) or enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC), includes the notorious O157 strain.

How is E. coli Transmitted

E. coli infections are typically transmitted through:

• Contaminated food and water: Undercooked meat (especially ground beef), raw milk, and fresh produce such as lettuce, spinach, and sprouts are common sources.
• Person-to-person contact: This is particularly common in settings such as daycare centers, nursing homes, and among family members.
• Animal contact: Direct contact with animals, especially in petting zoos or farms, can lead to infection.

Symptoms of E. coli Infection

Symptoms can vary depending on the strain but generally include:

• Diarrhea: Often bloody in the case of STEC.
• Abdominal cramps: Intense and painful cramps are common.
• Nausea and vomiting: Can occur with or without diarrhea.
• Fever: Usually low-grade but can be higher in some cases.

Complications of E. coli Infections

A severe complication of STEC infection is Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS), characterized by:

• Anemia: Due to the destruction of red blood cells.
• Kidney failure: Can lead to decreased urine output and the need for dialysis.
• Low platelet count: Increases the risk of bleeding.

HUS is a medical emergency, particularly dangerous for young children and the elderly, and requires immediate medical attention.

Diagnosing E. coli Infections

Diagnosis involves:

• Stool sample testing: To detect the presence of E. coli bacteria and identify the specific strain.
• Laboratory tests: To confirm the type of toxin produced by the bacteria (in the case of STEC).

What are Some Treatment Options for an E. coli Infection?

• Hydration: Essential for preventing dehydration, especially in cases of severe diarrhea.
• Antibiotics: Generally not recommended for STEC infections as they can worsen the release of toxins. However, they may be used for other types of E. coli infections under medical supervision.
• Hospitalization: Necessary for severe cases, especially those developing HUS. Treatment may include intravenous fluids, blood transfusions, and kidney dialysis.

Prevention

To prevent E. coli infections, you should always practice:

• Proper food handling: Cook meat thoroughly, avoid unpasteurized dairy products, and wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly.
• Hand hygiene: Wash hands regularly with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom, changing diapers, or handling animals.
• Safe drinking water: Ensure water is clean and safe to drink. Avoid drinking untreated water from lakes, rivers, or streams.

Food Safety Tips

Proper food safety is extremely important to prevent the spread of E. coli. Some tips include:

• Cook meats thoroughly: Ground beef should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) to kill any harmful bacteria.
• Avoid cross-contamination: Use separate cutting boards for raw meat and other foods. Clean utensils and surfaces thoroughly after preparing raw meat.
• Wash hands and surfaces: Regularly clean cutting boards, utensils, and countertops with hot, soapy water.

Milwaukee E. coli Statistics

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services details past outbreaks and investigations that have impacted the state; four E. coli investigations are mentioned.

• In 2018, the romaine lettuce A outbreak caused 210 illnesses across 36 states; three of the affected people were in Wisconsin. This E. coli outbreak was determined to be the O157:H7 strain and was traced back to the Yuma growing region in Arizona.
• Later, in 2018, romaine lettuce B had 62 reported illnesses across 16 states, including one reported in Wisconsin. This outbreak was also the O157:H7 strain and was traced back to northern and central California’s Central Coastal growing regions.
• In September 2019, another E. coli outbreak linked to romaine lettuce occurred. 167 cases were reported across 27 states, 33 people in Wisconsin were affected, leading to 14 hospitalizations and 2 people developing hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). This outbreak was linked to E. coli O157 from Salinas, California.
• In December 2019, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services investigated an outbreak linked to Fresh Express Sunflower Crisp chopped salad kits. Although this E. coli strain was determined to be O157:H7, it differed from the Salinas romaine lettuce outbreak strain. Only 5 states were affected during this outbreak, and three people from Wisconsin were affected.

Get in Contact Now

Don’t delay—reach out to The Lange Law Firm today. Call (833) 330-3663 or message us online for a free consultation. Our dedicated team will investigate your E. coli case, identify the liable parties, and fight for the compensation you deserve. We treat every case with the individual attention it deserves. You will work directly with our dedicated attorneys, who are committed to understanding your unique situation and needs.

The Lange Law Firm specializes in cases involving E. coli and other foodborne illnesses. Our team is well-versed in the complexities of these cases, from identifying sources of contamination to navigating public health regulations. Call us or visit our website and fill out the online contact form with your details. One of our representatives will get back to you promptly to discuss your case and arrange your consultation.