Illness ReportingQuestion 157 of 319
A food handler diagnosed with Shiga-toxin producing E. coli (STEC), such as O157:H7, may transmit a severe complication if he returns to work too early. Which complication is most associated with STEC?
a.Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a kidney-damaging illness
b.Iron-deficiency anemia
c.Seasonal hay fever
d.Lactose intolerance
Explanation
Shiga-toxin producing E. coli, including O157:H7, can cause severe bloody diarrhea that progresses in some patients (especially young children) to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which can lead to kidney failure. Because of this serious complication, STEC is one of the Big 6 illnesses, and an infected employee must be excluded until cleared by the health authority.
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