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Vero cytotoxin-producing Escherichia coli O157 infections in Austria
B Sölder1, F Allerberger, A Eigentler
1Department of Paediatrics, University of Innsbruck, Austria.
Abstract:
To determine the prevalence of Vero cytotoxin-producing Escherichia coli (VTEC) serotype O157 associated diarrhea in the Austrian patient population, we surveyed all stool specimens of liquid consistency submitted to the Federal Public Health Laboratory (FPHL) in Innsbruck for 2 years for this organism. This laboratory serves a population of approximately 1 Million people. Of 5,265 stool specimens, 7 yielded O157 VTEC. Five isolates of E. coli O157 phage type 32, VT2 were cultured from specimens received during a three day period from residents in the county of Schwaz. During the investigation of this "outbreak" E. coli O157 strains were also isolated from two household contacts. Only 1 out of 8 persons with E. coli O157 diarrhea had bloody stools, although 5 of 7 tested specimens (= 71%) also yielded Campylobacter jejuni. None of our patients received antimicrobial therapy directed against E. coli O157 (one child had josamycin). There were no fatalities and no cases of hemolytic uremic syndrome (follow up period: 6 months). Consumption of hamburger, roast beef, and unpasteurized milk was not confirmed in this study. In Austria, no O157 VTEC strain was isolated till June 1992, although at the FPHL in Innsbruck stool specimens of liquid consistency were cultured for this organism since January 1991.
Insights
Vero cytotoxin-producing Escherichia coli (VTEC) O157 diarrhea is rare in Austria, with only 7 cases identified over two years. Most patients did not have bloody stools, and no severe complications like hemolytic uremic syndrome were observed.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Vero cytotoxin-producing Escherichia coli (VTEC) O157 is a significant cause of bacterial gastroenteritis worldwide.
- Surveillance for VTEC O157 is crucial for understanding its prevalence and implementing control measures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of VTEC O157-associated diarrhea in the Austrian patient population.
- To investigate an apparent outbreak of E. coli O157 in the county of Schwaz.
Main Methods:
- A 2-year survey of liquid stool specimens submitted to the Federal Public Health Laboratory (FPHL) in Innsbruck.
- Identification of VTEC O157 using standard microbiological techniques.
- Investigation of an outbreak, including contact tracing.
Main Results:
- Seven isolates of VTEC O157 were identified from 5,265 stool specimens (0.13% prevalence).
- Five cases were linked to a three-day period in the county of Schwaz, with two additional cases from household contacts.
- Bloody stools were infrequent (1/8), and co-infection with Campylobacter jejuni was common (5/7).
Conclusions:
- VTEC O157-associated diarrhea appears to be uncommon in Austria.
- The study identified a localized outbreak, highlighting the importance of continued surveillance.
- No fatalities or hemolytic uremic syndrome cases were reported, suggesting a potentially milder clinical presentation in this population.