Outbreak of Gastroenteritis in Japan due to E. coli O166
Author Information
Author(s): Yoshikazu Nishikawa, Jun Ogasawara, Anna Helander, Kosuke Haruki
Primary Institution: Osaka City Institute of Public Health and Environmental Sciences
Hypothesis
E. coli producing EAST1 but possessing no other identifiable pathogenic properties may compose either a new group of diarrhea-associated E. coli or a new subgroup of ETEC.
Conclusion
This study reports the first outbreak caused by EAST1-producing E. coli that did not have other well-characterized virulence genes.
Supporting Evidence
- 54 of 91 persons attending a meeting became ill after eating lunch.
- Stool specimens from 33 patients showed E. coli O166 in 29 specimens.
- The E. coli O166 did not express known virulence factors.
Takeaway
A group of people got sick after eating lunch, and scientists found a new type of E. coli that might be causing diarrhea.
Methodology
Stool specimens were examined, and E. coli O166 was isolated and analyzed for known virulence factors.
Limitations
The study may not detect all strains of E. coli due to the rarity of tests for EAST1.
Participant Demographics
Patients included 54 individuals who attended a meeting in Osaka, Japan.
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