• Question: what is the most dangerous group of e-coli

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      Asked by Aoife to Aoife, Brian, Conor, Louise, Matthew on 15 Nov 2016.
      • Photo: Louise Mc Grath

        Louise Mc Grath answered on 15 Nov 2016:

        Hi Aoife,

        There are many types of E. coli, and most of them are harmless. Some can be harmful, and one type even causes bloody diarrhea (Yuck!). However one of the more dangerous strains is definitely a strain called O157:H7 which may also cause severe anemia or kidney failure, which can lead to death. So make sure to always wash your hands and wash every fork/knife etc you use when preparing food and you should be safe!

      • Photo: Matthew Kitching

        Matthew Kitching answered on 15 Nov 2016:

        Hey Aoife,

        Louise is right! the O157 strains are pretty pretty nasty – they’re nasty because they produce a toxin called Shiga toxin! which has some pretty unpleasant effects on your stomach (causes dysentery!!!)

        But never fear! science is here! we can treat it with power antibiotics and rehydration! but its best to avoid getting it at all.

        Hope this answers your question! let me know if you want to know more 🙂

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