E. coli outbreak leaves 53 sick in Latvia

IANS April 4, 2025 163 views

A dangerous E. coli outbreak is sweeping through Latvia, affecting 53 people with children being the most vulnerable. The Centre for Disease Prevention and Control reports cases in multiple educational institutions, with 28 children hospitalized. Epidemiologists are urgently investigating the potential source, suspecting contaminated food products. The Shiga toxin-producing strain can cause severe symptoms, including bloody diarrhoea and potential kidney failure.

"Certain E. coli strains can produce dangerous toxins that cause severe illness" - CDC Report
Riga, April 4: An outbreak of a dangerous Shiga toxin-producing E. coli infection in Latvia has left 53 people, including seven adults, ill, the Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) said.

Key Points

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Outbreak confirmed in 28 schools and preschools across Latvia

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16 children remain hospitalized with four in intensive care

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Epidemiologists investigating potential food contamination source

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Shiga toxin strain poses serious health risks

According to the CDC, cases of E. coli have been confirmed in 28 schools, 26 preschool institutions, and two elementary schools across the country.

The Children's Clinical University Hospital in Riga has treated 28 children for the infection. As of Thursday, 12 of them had recovered and were discharged, while 16 remained hospitalised, including four in intensive care.

Epidemiologists have not yet identified the source of the infection. After extensive laboratory testing and contact tracing, investigators assume the outbreak may be linked to contaminated food products. However, the CDC also did not rule out a mixed-source outbreak, possibly involving a product contaminated with multiple pathogens, Xinhua news agency reported.

The CDC said that Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria are normally present in the intestines of both humans and animals and are typically harmless. However, certain strains -- known as STEC or VTEC (Shiga toxin or verotoxin-producing E. coli) -- can produce dangerous toxins that cause severe illness.

These strains can lead to bloody diarrhoea and, in some cases, acute kidney failure requiring intensive care. Herbivorous animals, particularly cattle, are the main reservoir of these harmful bacteria.

Latvia reported 42 cases of E. coli infection last year.

According to the World Health Organization, Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a bacterium that is commonly found in the gut of humans and warm-blooded animals. Most strains of E. coli are harmless. Some strains, however, such as Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), can cause severe foodborne disease. It is transmitted to humans primarily through the consumption of contaminated foods, such as raw or undercooked ground meat products, raw milk, and contaminated raw vegetables and sprouts.

Reader Comments

M
Marta K.
This is so concerning! 😨 I have two kids in preschool and now I'm worried about what they're being served. The authorities need to identify the source ASAP.
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Janis P.
The article mentions contaminated food but doesn't specify which products. More transparency would help people make safer choices while shopping.
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Liga B.
Sending strength to all the affected families, especially those with kids in intensive care. This must be so scary for parents. ❤️
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Andris V.
I appreciate the detailed explanation about E. coli strains. Educational content like this helps people understand the risks better.
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Elina R.
While the article is informative, I wish it included more practical advice on prevention - like proper food handling techniques or symptoms to watch for.
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Kristine L.
My niece was one of the hospitalized children. She's recovering now, but it was terrifying. Thank you to all the healthcare workers who helped! 🙏

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Tags:
E. coli outbreak Latvia Health Crisis Shiga toxin Pediatric Infection CDC Investigation
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