Vero cytotoxin-producing Escherichia coli O 157 in the United Kingdom

A total of 226 cultures of Vero cytotoxin-producing Escherichia coli O 157 isolated from humans was received by the PHLS Laboratory of Enteric Pathogens during the six month period January to June 1992. A record monthly total of 122 isolates was received in June. Ten phage types (PT) were identified during this period; PT 2 (45%) and PT 49 (21%) predominated. In addition, 27 human sera with antibodies to E. coli O 157 lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were examined from other cases during this period, making a total of 253 cases of infection associated with E. coli O 157.