The E.coli bacterium is rampant in France. Cases of serious contamination have been increasing since February, two children have already died of it in 2022. As of March 11, 26 cases of hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) “linked to E.coli bacteria with similar characteristics have been identified” in children 1 to 15 years old.
From its full name Escherichia coli, this bacterium is very often found in food. In younger children, it can cause an episode of bloody diarrhea which can lead to acute kidney failure. To protect children, it is important to monitor their diet.
E.Coli bacteria is mainly found in the intestinal flora of ruminants, it can then be found in the muscle of the animal during slaughter. This is why it is necessary avoid giving undercooked meat or unpasteurized milk and cheese to a child under the age of five. With regard to minced meat, care must be taken to really cook it well because the bacteria can potentially be in the middle of the piece of meat.
In addition, children should not drink untreated water (well water or torrent) and the youngest (under 5 years old) should avoid contact with cows, calves, sheep or goats and their environment. In the event of contact with these animals, hand washing must be systematic, recalls Public Health France. Finally, raw foods should be kept separate from cooked or ready-to-eat foodsand ready meals and leftover food should be quickly refrigerated, sufficiently reheated and consumed quickly.
