EHEC outbreak in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania: number of infections is increasing!

EHEC outbreak in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania: number of infections is increasing!

A worrying EHEC outbreak is spreading in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, which can also be fatal for holidaymakers. The authorities at the State Office for Health and Social Affairs (Lagus) in Rostock are sounding the alarm after the number of infections in the region has increased to 94. On Thursday alone, five new cases were recorded, as fitforfun.de reported.

The situation is alarming. Several of the sufferers, including ten children, developed severe cases associated with hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Four children are currently being treated in intensive care units, which only increases the concerns of doctors. Health Minister Stefanie Drese emphasizes that the exact source of the infection remains undiscovered, making it difficult to find the food responsible.

What is EHEC?

EHEC stands for enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli and is a special form of coliform bacteria that occurs primarily in the intestines of ruminants such as cattle or goats. These bacteria produce Shiga toxins, which can cause serious diarrhea and, in some cases, the dreaded HUS, which can lead to kidney failure. Symptoms of an EHEC infection include watery diarrhea, abdominal pain and nausea, while severe cases can include bloody diarrhea and fever. Young children in particular are at risk because their immune systems are not yet fully developed, which makes them more susceptible to these complications, explains [ndr.de](https://www.ndr.de/ratgeber/gesundheit/ehec-die-kommensten-fragen-und- Answeren,ehec-104.html).

The incubation period for EHEC averages three to four days, but in some cases it can vary between two and ten days. Those affected should urgently see a doctor, especially if bloody diarrhea occurs. To prevent further spread, preventative measures such as thorough hand washing after contact with animals, safe food preparation and hygiene in community facilities are essential.

Background and risk factors

The health situation in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania remains tense. A rapid analysis identified the EHEC bacteria at the National Reference Center, but the exact source of the current outbreak remains unknown. The state has recorded an increase in EHEC cases in recent years - over 130 registered illnesses in 2024, compared to 80 in the previous year. This constant increase must be taken seriously, especially since the disease can also cause serious complications, emphasizes tagesschau.de.

It is therefore important that people are aware of the risk factors involved: consumption of raw milk products, contact with infected animals and consumption of insufficiently heated meat are common routes of infection. Hygiene also plays a crucial role, as smear infections can spread the disease.

The relevant authorities are working feverishly to find the source of the outbreak. However, the search of the food consumed and laboratory analyzes are time-consuming. However, a good hand in traceability and control of food is essential to prevent such outbreaks from recurring.