E. coli

Escherichia coli (E. coli) is the name of a common type of bacteria that is found in the digestive tracts of many warm-blooded animals, including humans. While the majority of E. coli bacteria are not dangerous, certain strands of this microorganism can cause extreme intestinal turmoil for people if ingested. Symptoms of food poisoning caused by E. coli include abdominal cramping, diarrhea (sometimes bloody), and, in some cases, nausea and vomiting.

Causes of E. coli

E. coli, in its dangerous form (O157:H7), is transferred to the human body through one’s ingestion of contaminated food or beverage. This bacterium is most commonly found in cattle meat, such as ground beef used for hamburgers, although it may also reside in produce or other animal meat. When food preparation is inadequate, then the bacteria may be passed on to unsuspecting consumers. Because of this, restaurant workers have the responsibility of ensuring that they properly clean and thoroughly cook all food before serving it to customers.

E. coli may also be transferred from individual to individual, so if infected or recently infected food service workers fail to wash their hands or follow basic sanitation protocol, then they can pass the illness on to those dining on the food they contaminated. Restaurants have the responsibility of ensuring that their workers follow basic, necessary safety and sanitation procedures. Failure to do so could result in a number of unintentionally infected customers.

Contact Us

If you or someone you love has needed medical care due to an E. coli infection caused by a negligence food manufacturer or food service provider, then you deserve to claim damages from the responsible party. Contact the Philadelphia personal injury lawyers of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C. today at 215-238-1130 to speak with a qualified attorney about your situation.