More children in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern have spouses joining their families
In recent weeks, a concerning spike in EHEC infections has been reported in the region of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, with particular focus on the districts of Vorpommern-Greifswald and Vorpommern-Rügen.
Two young children from different districts are currently receiving treatment for haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS), a serious complication that can develop from EHEC infections. A 20-month-old boy from the Schwerin area is in intensive care with kidney failure, while another child from Berlin is being treated at the University Medicine Rostock.
The Schwerin family, whose child is in intensive care, has not been in these districts in the past few weeks. Another local child in Vorpommern-Rügen has also been infected with EHEC.
Children are particularly vulnerable to EHEC infections due to their immature immune systems and organs. In Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, five children between the ages of 20 months and 6 years have been infected with EHEC. The total number of EHEC infections in the region has risen to 27.
EHEC stands for enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli, a pathogenic strain of intestinal bacterium commonly found in farm animals. The EHEC microbes produce Shiga toxins, powerful cell poisons that can cause severe diarrhoeal diseases and HUS in humans.
Investigations into the source of the EHEC outbreak are ongoing, but the cause remains unclear. Three of the newly reported EHEC cases have developed the serious secondary disease HUS. The children in the nursery group of the 20-month-old boy from Schwerin have been considered close contacts and are not allowed to attend the facility for the time being.
This outbreak serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining good hygiene practices, especially when dealing with food and animals. It is crucial to wash hands regularly, cook food thoroughly, and avoid contact with animals that may carry the EHEC bacteria.
Stay informed and follow updates from local health authorities for guidance on preventing and managing EHEC infections.
