E. coli Bacteria

During a press conference in Aswan Governorate, Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Health and Population, has confirmed that the recent cases of intestinal flu in Aswan are linked to infections caused by E. coli bacteria. Ghaffar addressed the outbreak affecting residents in the “Abu Al-Rish” and Daraw areas, explaining that the cases of severe intestinal flu are a result of E. coli bacteria contamination.

Ghaffar stated: ‘The initial cases showed symptoms of vomiting, colic, diarrhea, and high fever. In fact, these symptoms began not on the 16th, but two or three days earlier. The Ministry of Health’s monitoring systems reported 8 cases of intestinal flu at Daraw Hospital and 22 cases in the Abu al-Rish area.’

He further elaborated that tests on diarrhea samples revealed the presence of this colonic bacterial infection, which is typically found in contaminated water or food. He noted that the analysis, conducted by the central laboratories in Cairo, confirmed the findings.

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The Minister highlighted that the severity of the illness varies depending on the strain of E. coli, with some strains causing more severe symptoms. He stated, “It is normal to encounter cases of diarrhea and vomiting, but certain mutated strains can pose a greater risk.”

Dr. Abdel Ghaffar also explained that E. coli bacteria are transmitted through water contaminated by feces or improperly handled food. This group of bacteria can cause infections in the digestive system and urinary tract, leading to severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting. He added that people with weak immune systems are at higher risk for severe illness.

The Minister emphasized that symptoms can last from one to five days and the infection can spread between individuals. He urged people to maintain proper hygiene, including frequent handwashing, to prevent further transmission of the bacteria.