The E. coli outbreak in Calgary-area daycares continues to grow, with a potential for further spread. Dr. Stephen Freedman of Alberta Children’s Hospital advises parents to ensure infected children wash their hands regularly to prevent the spread of fecal matter. The outbreak, which began on September 4, has resulted in 264 confirmed cases, mainly in children, making it the largest of its kind in Canada involving children under five. The outbreak is linked to a kitchen that supplies meals to the affected daycares. It is believed that a particular strain of E. coli, known as 0157, which secretes a toxin that can cause organ damage, is responsible for the severity of the illness in the infected children. Children under the age of five are most at risk of developing a severe illness, called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), as a result of the E. coli infection. There is no specific treatment for the infection, but drinking fluids is crucial, and severe cases may require hospitalization and intravenous fluids. Antibiotics are not effective in treating the infection and may even increase the risk of developing HUS. Health officials recommend thorough washing of fruits and vegetables and proper cooking of beef to prevent E. coli contamination. Regular handwashing is also highly recommended, especially after handling raw meat.
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