Verotoxin-producing Escherichia coli (VTEC) is a form of the bacteria E. coli that causes gastrointestinal illness. It can be found in cattle, as well as some other animals. VTEC is spread to humans through eating or drinking contaminated food or water, or by contact with animals and their environments (e.g., farms or petting zoos). It can also spread from person to person.
Complications may include hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). HUS is a serious disorder that usually occurs in children and involves the formation of small blood clots throughout the body that block the flow of blood to vital organs such as the brain, heart, and kidneys.
Local Information
2023 Statistics
Incidence rate is the number of new cases of disease divided by the number of persons at risk for the disease during a particular time period.
Cases:
0*
*Cases include confirmed cases.
Incidence rate per 100,000 in 2023: 0
Incidence rate per 100,000 of Verotoxin Producing E. coli including HUS by year
Data Sources |
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More Information about E. coli and HUS |
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Reporting |
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Report to the Health Unit by next business day by phone at 705-474-1400 or toll free at 1-800-563-2808, ext. 5229 if verotoxin-producing E. coli infection indicator conditions, including Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS) is suspected or confirmed as per Ontario Regulation 135/18 and amendments under the Health Protection and Promotion Act, R.S.O., c.H.7. |
Should one go to childcare, school, or work if they have verotoxin-producing E. coli infection indicator conditions, including HUS? |
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Exclude symptomatic food handlers, healthcare providers, and childcare staff and attendees until having 2 consecutive negative stool specimens or rectal swabs taken at least 24 hours apart and at least 48 hours after the completion of antibiotic and/or anti-diarrheal therapy medications, if these medications have been used. Follow the direction of your healthcare provider, public health case manager, or occupational health at your workplace. |
Healthcare Provider Information |
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Public Health Ontario: Enteric - Bacterial Culture Public Health Ontario: Verotoxin-producing Escherichia coli (VTEC) (E. coli) MSD Manual - Professional Version: Hemolytic-Uremic Syndrome (HUS) |
Contact our Communicable Disease Control (CDC) program at 705-474-1400 or toll free at 1-800-563-2808, ext. 5229, or by email to cdc@healthunit.ca for more information.
Last updated: August 2024, by CDC