Scientific Name: Escherichia coli
![](https://parasiteguide.libbymitchell.dcreate.domains/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/ecoli-illustration.jpg)
Morphological Characteristics
E. coli bacteria are capsule shaped with flagella to assist in movement.
Identification Methods
A stool sample is tested for E. coli by culturing the bacteria in a lab setting.
LIFE CYCLE
-transmitted to humans through consumption of contaminated foods such as raw/undercooked meat or raw milk
-can also be transmitted through person to person contact through oral-faecal route
-E. Coli travels down the digestive tract and releases a Shiga toxin which damages linings of the small intestine
-reproduces asexually in intestine
HOST INFORMATION
- Transmitted through water/food or contact with animals or people who are infected to human intestines
- People are at greater risk if they are very young, elderly, have weakened immune systems, or travel to countries where infections are more likely.
- Bad hygeine makes E. coli infection more likely
GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION
This map shows the number of death of children under 5 years by diarrhea. This is often related to E. coli so this map gives an idea where E. coli has the strongest effects.
SOURCES
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16638-e-coli-infection
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/e-coli
https://microbiologylaboratoryturkey.blogspot.com/2018/10/escherichia-coli.html
https://www.medscape.com/answers/217485-38622/what-is-the-morphology-of-escherichia-coli-e-coli