The potential hazard posed by the accumulation of E. coli bacteria.

In recent times, there have been reports of EHEC (enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli) outbreaks in both Germany and Belgium, raising concerns among health authorities and the public.

The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment has stated that the average time from consuming contaminated food to the onset of EHEC symptoms is between three to four days. Symptoms of EHEC infection include watery diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, and in severe cases, the diarrhea can become bloody and complications such as the hemolytic-uremic syndrome (HUS) with kidney failure can occur.

In Belgium, laboratory analyses have shown that the infections were caused by the same type of EHEC bacterium, indicating a common source for these infections. Around 20 people have fallen ill with EHEC in Belgian nursing homes, with at least four reported deaths. The source of contamination in Belgium is suspected to be contaminated food such as raw meat, raw fish, raw vegetables, or raw milk.

In Germany, the current situation in the EHEC outbreak in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern is being urgently investigated to find the source of infection. The number of EHEC infections in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern has risen to 17, with children particularly affected, and several requiring intensive care. The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) has no indications of a cluster of EHEC cases in other regions of Germany.

The current sources of EHEC infections are localized mainly in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany, and in Belgium. However, it is not yet possible to determine if the outbreaks in Germany and Belgium are related. The authorities in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern are investigating various possible sources, but have not yet found a clearly identifiable pattern.

EHEC is a pathogenic strain of intestinal bacterium commonly found in farm animals. It produces Shiga toxins, powerful cell poisons that can cause severe diarrheal diseases. EHEC can also be transmitted directly from person to person, even with a few bacteria causing an infection.

The number of EHEC infections nationwide in 2023 was over 3,440, and in 2024, it was approximately 4,570. In 2023, there were 5, and in 2024, 3 deaths attributable to EHEC.

Health authorities advise the public to take precautions to avoid EHEC infections. This includes cooking meat thoroughly, washing fruits and vegetables, and avoiding unpasteurized milk and dairy products. It is also important to practice good hygiene, especially after using the bathroom, to prevent the spread of the bacteria.

The ongoing investigations into the EHEC outbreaks in Germany and Belgium are a reminder of the importance of food safety and hygiene practices. The public is advised to stay informed and follow the advice of health authorities to protect themselves and their families.