Escherichia coli 0157: An emerging new challenge in the developing world- A review

Abstract

Escherichia coli O157:H7 strains are the most prevalent group of Shiga toxin (Stx) producing E. coli (STEC) worldwide. Transmission frequently occurs through ingestion of raw or undercooked beef, but other contaminated foods and water have also been implicated, and person-to-person transmission also occurs. Escherichia coli O157:H7 was first associated with severe gastroenteritis in 1982 when it caused two major outbreaks of HUS from the same restaurant chain in Oregon and Michigan in the United States of America. The frequency of sporadic and outbreak cases of E. coli O157 infection appears to be on the increase worldwide especially the developing countries. This review describes in detail epidemiology, clinical manifestations and current methods to diagnose this pathogen.