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EAEC O104:H4
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EAEC O104:H4

bacterium
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Quick Summary

EAEC O104:H4 is a rare strain of the bacterium Escherichia coli (E. coli). While most E. coli strains are harmless and live in the intestines of humans and animals, some can cause illness. EAEC O104:H4 is known for producing Shiga toxin, which can lead to severe gastrointestinal issues and a complication called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). HUS can cause kidney failure and, in extreme cases, death. This specific strain was responsible for a deadly outbreak in Germany in 2011, which resulted in thousands of cases and dozens of fatalities. Proper food handling and cooking are crucial to prevent infections from contaminated sources.12

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2 Britannica Sources
  1. German E. coli outbreak of 2011
  2. E. coli

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