Epidemiological analysis of STEC and EHEC infection in Australia
| Project start date: | 01 July 2011 |
| Project end date: | 15 September 2011 |
| Publication date: | 15 September 2011 |
| Project status: | Completed |
| Livestock species: | Sheep, Goat, Lamb, Grassfed cattle, Grainfed cattle |
Summary
The purpose of this project was to investigate and report on the epidemiology of virulent strains of Shiga toxigenic E. coli - STEC - and Enterohaemorrhagic E. coli - EHEC - in humans within Australia.
The project provides a comprehensive review of all literature and the latest data regarding the epidemiology of STEC and EHEC in Australia.
A valuable outcome of the project is the provision of information to international regulators and purchasers of Australian meat regarding the low rate of infections and lack of association of STEC and EHEC and meat in Australia.
Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli are an important cause of gastroenteritis in Australia and worldwide and can also result in serious ramifications such as haemolytic uraemic syndrome.
STEC infections in Australia have remained fairly steady over the past eleven years. Overall, the incidence and burden of disease due to STEC and HUS in Australia appears comparable or lower than similar developed countries.
The scientific manuscript from this project was accepted for publication by and is available from BioMed Central journal.
