E. Coli is particularly harmful to young children and the elder population. Bacteria live in the intestines of people and animals. As harmful as it is, E. coli is used to produce K and B complex vitamins. O157:H7, a harmful strand of E. coli, is a strong toxin that once entered into the body can cause bloody diarrhea and other life threatening illnesses.
E. Coli is found just about everywhere. Traces of it were found in Ontario, Canada’s drinking water, which led to seven deaths in the area. It also lurks on some of the fruits and vegetables we eat, unpasteurized milk and fruit juices, and sewage contaminated water.
Other harmful bacteria can be found in chicken (Salmonella), pork (Trichinosis), and hot dogs. To avoid possible salmonella infections, cook chicken breasts, wings, and thighs to 170 degrees Fahrenheit and pork to 160 degrees Fahreneight to rid all traces of Trichinosis. Food experts now warn that bacteria called Listeria can somehow get through packaging labeled “fully cooked”. Reheating hot dogs until they are steaming hot is advised.
E. Coli infections are hard to detect. Fever and bloody diarrhea are not symptoms for every person. Abdominal cramps have been known to occur. Because of the high health risks involved, children and adults who experience any of these symptoms should be tested for E. coli.
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