Baltic Sea Witnesses Escherichia coli (EHEC) Outbreak Among South-western Children - Marriage cases in the Baltic region: Kids from the southwest region also affected by the infection
Germany Experiences Ongoing EHEC Outbreak, Particularly Affecting Children
Germany is currently grappling with an ongoing outbreak of Enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC), a type of bacteria that can cause serious illness in humans. The most recent outbreak, primarily affecting children, has been reported in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, with over 40 cases since mid-August 2025.
In Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, a total of 17 cases had been reported by the end of last week, many of whom are children and young people. Two children from the Southwest, under the age of 16, have been hospitalized with EHEC infections in the region.
The sources and routes of the EHEC infections remain unclear, but the Baltic Sea has been mentioned as a possible location. EHEC can be transmitted through contaminated food and directly from person to person. It's worth noting that the bacteria is not limited to Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, as they can occur in other regions, including Northern Germany where some of the affected individuals had been on vacation.
The cases in Stuttgart and the district of Rottweil in Baden-Württemberg are part of the ongoing EHEC outbreak in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. However, the State Ministry of Health did not provide information about the current health status of the two Baden-Württemberg cases.
EHEC infections are not uncommon in Baden-Württemberg, with a low three-digit number of cases reported annually, including those infected abroad. In 2023, more than 3,440 cases were recorded nationwide, with around 4,570 in 2024 and approximately 3,660 so far this year (as of August 27). Unfortunately, five deaths were reported due to EHEC infections in 2023.
It's important to note that EHEC produces Shiga toxins, which can cause severe diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, and hemolytic-uremic syndrome (HUS), potentially leading to kidney failure. Hamburg also reports a rising number of EHEC infections with hospitalizations.
The public health authorities are urging vigilance and reminding the public to practice good hygiene, especially when handling food. They advise cooking meat thoroughly, washing fruits and vegetables, and avoiding raw milk products to reduce the risk of EHEC infections.
The 2011 Germany EHEC outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the potential severity of these infections. Around 3,800 cases and over 50 deaths were reported that year, with contaminated sprouts from Egyptian-bred fenugreek seeds considered the likely cause.
As the situation continues to develop, the public is encouraged to stay informed and follow the advice of health authorities to protect themselves and their families.
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