Outbreak of EHEC in Berlin: Six children fall sick
In recent weeks, an outbreak of EHEC (Enterohaemorrhagic E. coli) has been reported in several regions of Germany, affecting a total of 24 children and adolescents. Six of these cases have been confirmed in Berlin, with three of the affected children currently being treated in the hospital for hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a disease that can be caused by EHEC.
The exact source of the outbreak in Berlin and Brandenburg is still unclear, but EHEC can be transmitted through animals or contaminated food. The bacterium that causes EHEC is known to lurk in cattle and goats, among other animals. It can also be transmitted to humans through petting animals that carry the bacteria, as well as through contaminated food.
The report is based on information from the Berliner Kurier, and the featured image for the article is by Jens Büttner/dpa. Families from other federal states, such as Baden-Württemberg, have also been affected by EHEC. In Baden-Württemberg, very small premature infants and their mothers have been affected by specialized perinatal care issues. Seven professors and clinic heads have urged the state health minister to enforce new minimum care volumes to protect this vulnerable group and expand the Ulm concept to other regions.
Over 20 children have been infected with EHEC in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, with one child from Brandenburg also being affected. No new information about the sirens that will wail over Berlin or the bacterial threat to bathing guests at Groß Glienicker See is mentioned in this paragraph.
Severe diarrhea illnesses can occur as a result of EHEC transmission. The affected children in Berlin range in age from infancy to 16 years. While the number of children affected in Brandenburg is one, as reported in the article, it serves as a reminder for the public to be vigilant about food safety and hygiene practices.
It is crucial for individuals to wash their hands regularly, cook meat thoroughly, and avoid consuming raw or undercooked foods to help prevent the spread of EHEC. The public health authorities are working diligently to identify the source of the outbreak and take necessary measures to protect the public.
