Record suspicion: EHEC infections in Saarland are increasing rapidly!

Record suspicion: EHEC infections in Saarland are increasing rapidly!

In recent weeks, a worrying increase in EHEC infections in Saarland has been making headlines. Currently, a total of 62 cases have been recorded as of September 10, 2023, a dramatic increase compared to just 15 infections in the same period last year. Loud Saarbrücken newspaper This is the highest value since the reporting requirement was introduced in 2001.

The spread of infections across all districts in Saarland, without a clear point of outbreak, is particularly alarming. In some cases, two children developed hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a serious complication that poses a potential health risk. Fortunately, no deaths have been reported so far, but the situation is tense and health authorities are on alert. The reasons for this increase are complex and can be attributed to various factors.

What is EHEC?

EHEC stands for enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli, a special form of coliform bacteria. These bacteria, normally found in the intestines of ruminants such as cattle and sheep, produce Shiga toxins that can cause severe diarrheal illness. Symptoms include severe, often bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain and fever, which usually appear two to seven days after infection [ NDR ].

Small children, the elderly, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems are particularly at risk. In severe cases, HUS disease can lead to anemia, blood clotting disorders and even kidney failure. It is therefore important to take the signs of infection seriously and to see a doctor immediately if you suspect them. Asymptomatic courses are also possible, which further complicates the situation.

Transmission routes and prevention

EHEC bacteria are transmitted through accidental ingestion of feces, often through contaminated food or water. Human-to-human transmission is also possible; potential carriers are more widespread than expected. Even fewer than 100 pathogens can cause an illness, which makes hygiene extremely important both when handling food and in personal areas [ NDR ].

Enjoying the barbecue during the barbecue season is also important: good hygiene when handling meat and vegetables can prevent many problems. Foods such as ground beef, raw milk products or inadequately washed leafy vegetables are often suspected of causing infections. Therefore, special precautions should be taken when cooking and preparing food to protect those at risk.

In Germany, there remain concerns about EHEC outbreaks in other regions. In Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, for example, a major outbreak has been recorded since mid-August, particularly affecting children. The O45:H2 subtype is responsible for the infections here, but there are no connections with the cases in Saarland because different EHEC types have been detected. The number of infections is also increasing in Belgium, especially among older people, with several deaths. This shows how important it is to be vigilant and act preventively [ Saarbrücken newspaper ].