A specific strain of E. coli associated with leafy greens has been the cause of ongoing enteric illness since late 2016, as revealed in research published in a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention journal. According to the study, led by Dr. Jessica Chen, a bioinformatician at the CDC’s National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, the strain REPEXH02 emerged in late 2015. The study classified this strain of E. coli O157:H7 as a recurring, emerging, or persistent strain.
Dr. Chen explained that the traditional understanding of foodborne illness was limited to individual outbreaks. However, with the use of whole genome sequencing, researchers can track the DNA of a strain and link related illnesses over extended periods of time. Strains like REPEXH02 that recur, emerge, or persist over time are referred to as REP strains of bacteria.
Recently, the New York State Department released guidance following the deaths of three individuals from flesh-eating bacteria in New York and Connecticut. These cases serve as a reminder of the seriousness of bacterial infections and the need for public health measures.
In late 2020, an additional outbreak associated with the strain was detected, leading to hospitalizations and instances of hemolytic uremic syndrome. However, no further outbreaks have been reported since then.
The article highlighted that E. coli O157:H7 is estimated to cause approximately 63,000 domestically acquired foodborne illnesses and 20 deaths each year in the United States. Symptoms of infection include abdominal cramps, bloody diarrhea, vomiting, and the rare but serious complication of hemolytic uremic syndrome.
While healthy cattle are the primary source of transmission for this strain, contaminated food, water, and environmental sources have also been responsible for outbreaks. Leafy greens, such as lettuce, have been recognized as a major source of E. coli O157:H7 illnesses and outbreaks. According to the article, 58.1% of E. coli O157:H7 illnesses in 2020 were attributed to vegetable row crops, including leafy greens. In the past decade, 32 confirmed or suspected outbreaks linked to contaminated leafy greens have occurred in the United States and Canada.
A large E. coli outbreak in late 2019 resulted in numerous cases and hospitalizations associated with the consumption of romaine lettuce from Salinas Valley, California. The study emphasizes the importance of detailed genomic characterization to understand the factors contributing to the emergence and persistence of these strains in specific environments.
E. coli, also known as Escherichia coli, is a diverse group of bacteria found in the environment, food, and the intestines of humans and animals. While most strains are harmless, certain strains can cause illness. It is crucial for public health authorities to monitor and address the risks associated with these bacterial infections.
Julia Musto is a reporter for Fox News and Fox Business Digital.
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