Colonization of caesarean section babies by Excherichia coli

Eight babies all delivered by Caesarean section were observed for evidence of colonization by E. coli from birth until discharge from hospital 10 to 14 days later. Faecal specimens were cultured daily for E. coli as were swabs from the rectum, groin, umbilicus, head, hands und mouth. Different serotypes of E. coli were isolated from four babies on day 1, one baby on day 2, one baby on day 7 and two babies on day 9. Three babies excreted more than one serotype of E. coli. Serotypes of E. coli isolated from the faeces and rectum were usually isolated from the groin but less often from the umbilicus. Other sides were rarely colonized. In all instances except one the primary site of colonization appeared to be the gastrointestinal tract. Colonization by E. coli was influenced by antibiotic therapy and possibly by the method of feeding.