Doctor issues urgent ‘essential’ advice after E. coli outbreak

The UK’s Health Safety Agency has issued a warning following a nationwide rise in E. coli cases. As a precaution, food manufacturers are recalling at least 60 types of prepackaged sandwiches, wraps and salads sold in major supermarkets because of possible E. coli contamination.

Dr Donald Grant, GP and Senior Clinical Advisor at The Independent Pharmacy, shared important medical advice on treating the symptoms of E. coli infection. These can include vomiting and diarrhea.

Common symptoms of E. coli infection

Dr Grant said: “With cases of a new strain of E. coli on the rise across the country, it is important to be aware of the common side effects of the infection and how to treat it. Symptoms include stomach cramps, diarrhea and sometimes vomiting and fever.

“It is essential to understand the symptoms that come with diarrhea. Common side effects include abdominal cramps due to changes in bowel activity, urgent bowel movements and bloating. It can also drastically increase dehydration, meaning drinking (safe) water is necessary to reduce the effects and improve health.

“While healthy people should recover in time, the disease can prove risky for those with weak immune systems. Therefore, I recommend seeking emergency medical attention if symptoms worsen.”

Treating E. coli symptoms with medication and diet

Dr Grant said: “While E. coli infection is a nasty disease, its symptoms – diarrhea and vomiting – can be treated with appropriate medication and awareness of diet. Various treatments are available that can help reduce the effects of the infection and return people to normal health.

“For those experiencing symptoms of diarrhea following an increase in E. coli, I recommend Imodium Instant Melts. These tablets contain the active ingredient, loperamide hydrochloride, and dissolve on the tongue, providing relief within at least an hour after ingestion.

“Also, another effective medication I recommend is FyboCalm Diarrhea Relief Capsules, which provide long-lasting symptom relief. This treatment includes the ingredient Xyloglucan, naturally derived from pea protein and tamarind seeds. It actively targets abdominal pain, bloating and flatulence, making it an effective treatment for diarrhea.

“My final medication recommendation is Dioralyte Sachets, which can be taken along with other diarrhea treatments. These sachets help replace lost fluids and restore hydration, helping the body fight diarrhea better and return to normal quickly. Dioralyte is available in blackcurrant or natural flavors, and adults are recommended to take one or two sachets after a loose bowel movement.

“In general, diet can play an important role in reducing the effects of diarrhea. I suggest you avoid fatty and highly spiced foods and instead opt for light alternatives such as rice, toast or bananas. If your symptoms continue to worsen or do not improve, it is important to book an appointment with your GP for further advice.”

Preventive measures and risk reduction

Dr Grant said: “The outbreak we are seeing could be linked to food manufacturers, like the Food Standards Agency (FSA). ) recalled supermarket products. Make sure you avoid buying and consuming these items.

“It is. coli bacteria can sometimes contaminate the water or soil used to grow lettuce and other vegetables. Infections caused by E. coli STEC bacteria can cause severe bloody diarrhea and, in some cases, more serious complications.

“People can reduce the risk of infection by regularly washing their hands with warm water and soap, as alcohol gels do not kill all the bugs that cause diarrheal diseases. In addition, it is important to wash fruits and vegetables well and cook foods at the recommended temperatures.

“Avoid preparing food for others if you are symptomatic and avoid visiting people in hospitals or care homes. Most importantly, do not return to work, school or daycare until 48 hours after your symptoms have stopped.

“Most E. coli infections can be managed at home with adequate hydration and rest, but severe cases require medical attention. A small number of infected people can develop serious complications, such as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which can affect the kidneys.”

Dr Grant qualified as a GP in Bristol in 1985. He has extensive clinical experience as a GP in and around the city alongside his work at The Independent Pharmacy.