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Cause:
Complication of infection
with Shiga toxin-producing bacteria, most commonly E.
coli O157:H7. HUS following a diarrheal illness is
reported in Washington as suspect Enterohemorrhagic E.
coli.
Illness and treatment:
HUS includes
hemolytic anemia (identified microscopically) and kidney
damage. Most persons recover with supportive treatment, but
some have permanent kidney damage or die from complications.
Sources:
For enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC) sources include
cattle and other animals including deer and horses; known
sources are unpasteurized milk, undercooked ground beef and
contaminated raw produce. There can be person-to-person
transmission of EHEC.
Additional risks:
Children are at
particular risk for developing HUS as a complication of
diarrheal illness caused by a Shiga toxin-producing
organism. Using antibiotics to treat EHEC diarrhea may
increase the risk of developing HUS.
Prevention:
Wash hands thoroughly after
contact with farm animals, visiting farm environments, and
handling raw meat. Thoroughly cook ground beef and venison
and wash preparation areas to avoid contaminating other
foods. Wash produce thoroughly before eating.
Recent Washington trends:
Each year there are 1 to 6 reports.
2008:
There were 2 cases of HUS
that did not follow a diarrheal illness. 12 cases of HUS
following a diarrheal illness are included as EHEC.
Purpose of Reporting and
Surveillance
-
To identify hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS)
cases as possible indicators of E. coli O157:H7 cases in the community,
since HUS is a severe complication of infection with
E. coli O157:H7 or less
commonly other pathogens.
-
To identify
outbreaks and potential sources of ongoing transmission, and
to prevent further transmission from such sources.
-
To educate people
about how to reduce their risk of infection.
Legal Reporting Requirements
-
Health care providers: immediately notifiable to local
health jurisdiction.
-
Hospitals: immediately notifiable to local
health jurisdiction.
-
Laboratories: no
requirements for reporting.
-
Local health
jurisdiction: immediately
notifiable to Communicable Disease Epidemiology Section
(1-877-539-4344).
Last
update
November 2009 |
