E.Coli

E.Coli is a common form of holiday illness which can have serious consequences if it goes untreated or if the patient becomes dehydrated.

Anne Thomson, who heads the Holiday Illness Compensation Claims Department at Farnworth Rose Solicitors, says: “E.Coli can cause serious illness or even death. If you contract E.Coli food poisoning in a holiday hotel abroad and the illness was caused by poor standards of food and hygiene practices, you could claim a substantial amount of compensation from the tour operator. To discuss this further call me on 080001 54321 or fill in the online claim form.”

What is E.Coli?

E.Coli is an organism which is commonly found in the gut of humans. Although many strains of the disease are harmless, others can cause serious illness. E.Coli bacteria can even survive refrigeration and freezing. Thorough cooking of food will kill E.Coli.  The usual incubation period between contracting the illness and becoming ill with symptoms of diarrhoea and vomiting is between 3- 8 days.

What caused E.Coli food poisoining?

Common causes of E.Coli food poisoning include:

• Eating undercooked meat and poultry.
• Swallowing faecal matter.
• Drinking unpasteurized milk.

What are the main symptoms of E.Coli?

Common symptoms of E.Coli include painful abdominal cramps, vomiting, nausea and severe diarrhoea, often with blood.

How long does E.Coli last?

Most cases of E.Coli clear up within 7 days and do not require medication. It is always advisable to seek medical help, however, as severe E.Coli infections can lead to long term illness and ongoing health problems if they go untreated.

How can E.Coli be prevented?

E.Coli infection can be prevented in package holiday hotels if food is handled, stored and cooked properly and never left exposed to the elements or open to fly and insect contamination. Infection can also be prevented by food handlers thoroughly washing cutting boards between preparing different foods and washing their hands frequently with hot, soapy water, particularly after using the toilet. Holidaymakers should never eat undercooked meat or poultry or drink local tap water.

What is the treatment for E.Coli?

E.Coli may pass naturally without treatment but a doctor will advise you as to whether or not any particular treatment is necessary. It is vital that patients do not become dehydrated or they may require treatment via an intravenous drip. Dehydration can cause major organ failure.

Mr Snead became ill at his holiday hotel in Egypt in February 2010 and suffered symptoms of food poisoning. He was treated for suspected E.Coli which ruined his holiday and caused ongoing symptoms of illness upon his return to the UK. The claim was settled when Mr & Mrs Snead accepted £3,750 compensation with our help.