How can I prevent E. coli infection?

How can I prevent E. coli infection?

1.     Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and running water.
2.     Follow the four steps to food safety when preparing food: clean, separate, cook, and chill.
3.     Use a food thermometer  to make sure meat has reached a safe minimum cooking temperature
4.     Cook ground beef, pork, and lamb to an internal temperature of at least 160°F (70˚C).
5.     Insert food thermometer into the side of the patty, to the center, to check.
6.     Cook beef steaks and roasts to an internal temperature of at least 145°F (62.6˚C) and allow to rest for 3 minutes after you remove meat from the grill or stove.
7.     Check temperature in the thickest part of steaks or roasts.
8. Prevent cross-contamination by thoroughly washing hands, counters, cutting boards, and utensils with soap and water after they touch raw meat.
9.  Do not drink untreated water or swallow water when swimming or playing in lakes, ponds, streams, swimming pools, and backyard “kiddie” pools.
10. Don’t eat raw dough or batter.
11. Drink pasteurized milk and juices.
12. Take precautions with food and water when traveling abroad.

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What are Escherichia coli?
Escherichia coli (abbreviated E. coli) are bacteria found in the intestines of people and animals and in the environment; they can also be found in foods.

Most E. coli are harmless and are part of a healthy intestinal tract. However, some cause diarrhea, urinary tract infections, respiratory illness, bloodstream infections, and other illnesses. The types of E. coli that can cause illness are spread through contaminated food or water and through contact with animals or people.

Two types of E. coli that cause diarrheal illness diagnosed in the United States are Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) and enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC).

STEC are a group of E. coli that produce Shiga toxin. This toxin causes people to have diarrhea, which can be bloody. When you hear reports about outbreaks of E. coli infections in the United States, they’re usually talking about a type called STEC O157.

ETEC are the leading cause of traveler’s diarrhea and a major cause of diarrhea around the world, especially among children.