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E. coli Directory
E. coli is a bacterium that lives in the digestive tracts of people and animals. Some types of E. coli can cause bloody diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea and vomiting. In some people, this type of E. coli may also cause severe anemia or kidney failure, which can lead to death. Other strains of E. coli can cause urinary tract infections or other infections. You get an E. coli infection by coming into contact with the feces of humans or animals, directly or through tainted food. Symptoms usually start 3 or 4 days after contact with the E. coli. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about how E. coli is contracted, the symptoms of E. coli infection, and much more.
Medical Reference
Food Safety Tips for Your Kitchen
Your kitchen is the heart of your home – but it can also be a case of food poisoning waiting to happen. Learn about foods that can make you and family sick and tips to keep your kitchen clean
Food Poisoning: What to Know
Learn about the germs, viruses, and parasites that are the biggest causes of food poisoning.
How to Prevent Food Poisoning
Food poisoning is common – and preventable. Learn what foods to be careful with, how to cook and clean, and what to watch for in restaurants and while traveling.
What Are the Symptoms of Food Poisoning?
Food poisoning can be caused by a variety of bacteria. WebMD explains the symptoms.
Features
Avoiding Food Poisoning
Avoiding Food Poisoning
Best Ways to Lower Your Chance of Getting a UTI
Want to lower your chance of getting a urinary tract infection? Here are five lifestyle changes and two doctor-prescribed methods that can help.
Germs
Public health experts tell WebMD about the 'dirty dozen' of places where germs love to hide. Learn about sources of e-coli infection and more.
Grill for Fun, Not Food-Borne Illness
Food-borne outbreaks are as likely to be due to careless handling of food at home as they are to errors in the manufacturing of the food.
Video
The Truth About Washing Greens
Fresh vegetables are vulnerable to bacteria because they often come in contact with soil and water. Is washing enough?
How Safe are Organic Foods?
Nutritionist, Marion Nestle dispels common myths about organic foods.
7 Ways to Prevent Foodborne Illness
E. coli Food Poisoning
No one wants to be bound to the bathroom with a nasty case of food poisoning. Here’s how to avoid E. coli bacteria from contaminated food.