EHEC wave in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania: Infections are increasing rapidly!

EHEC wave in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania: Infections are increasing rapidly!

In Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, EHEC cases are rising steeply again. Currently, the progression of the disease has increased from 62 to a whopping 78 infections within just 24 hours. On Tuesday, September 17th, the State Office for Health and Social Affairs (LAGuS) reported 16 new illnesses. This is particularly alarming since the current total number now stands at 89 infected people, as wa.de reports.

The health department has registered a total of 126 EHEC infections nationwide since August 17th, of which an impressive 96 cases were reported in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania alone. The situation is particularly serious for children, who are often affected by severe illnesses. Patients suffering from hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) require special attention - so far there are 15 documented cases of such serious complications.

Origin of infections unclear

Although the responsible bacterial strain, a subtype O45:H2 Stx2a, has been identified, the exact source of infection remains unclear. The food control authorities are working closely with the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) and the regional health authorities to find the cause. Currently, 35 of the 89 infections are assigned to the acute outbreak, while 54 cases are considered suspected cases, as ndr.de points out.

The EHEC bacteria found in the intestines of ruminants are extremely resilient. Transmission occurs via contaminated food and through direct contact with infected animals. Human-to-human transmission can also play a role. Symptoms of EHEC infections are varied and can range from watery diarrhea to severe HUS, and sick people should therefore be separated from other household members to prevent further spread.

Protective measures and recommendations

The RKI currently sees no signs of a nationwide spread. Nevertheless, hygiene measures are recommended by the health authorities: These include washing your hands thoroughly and cleaning kitchen utensils hygienically. Extreme caution should also be exercised when handling food. Fruit and vegetables can carry EHEC bacteria through contaminated water or fertilizer, which is why you should pay particular attention here.

The situation is reminiscent of the large Germany-wide EHEC outbreak in 2011, which resulted in 3,800 illnesses and over 50 deaths, caused by contaminated sprouts. Of course, one wouldn't want such a serious development these days, especially not in times when schools are about to start again, as the reported article from tagesschau.de suggests.