Rise in HIV Cases without a Corresponding Increase in HUS Incidents
In recent developments, the Health Minister of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Stefanie Drese (SPD), has issued an urgent call for the public to adhere to hand and kitchen hygiene rules, as the number of EHEC infections in the region continues to rise.
As of now, a total of 43 EHEC cases have been reported since mid-August, with no instances of the feared complication, Hemolytic-uremic syndrome (HUS), which can lead to the destruction of red blood cells, blood clotting disorders, and kidney function disorders.
The EHEC microbes, a disease-causing strain of intestinal bacterium mainly found in ruminants, produce Shiga toxins, which can cause severe diarrhea, including bloody diarrhea.
The current outbreak has primarily affected children, due to their underdeveloped immune systems and organs. Four cases have been reported from the Ludwigslust-Parchim district, three from the Rostock district, and two cases from the Vorpommern-RΓΌgen district. Three of the new cases belong to other federal states, two to Berlin, and one in Bavaria.
Since last week, the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) along with the health authorities of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern have officially participated in the investigation of the cause of the EHEC outbreak. The RKI has been proactively involved in the investigation, using comprehensive questionnaires to determine commonalities among those affected, such as food consumption, contact with animals, or places of residence.
Contaminated food is considered a possible source of infection, but there are currently no specific indications of this in the current case. However, when handling food, special care should be taken, including thorough cooking of meat products, separate storage of raw and cooked foods, and washing or peeling of raw vegetables.
The Ministry of Health is actively working with responsible authorities and offices to find the cause of the EHEC outbreak. Infection can be effectively prevented through consistent hygiene, according to Minister Drese.
Thirteen affected individuals are currently being treated in hospital. The number of EHEC infections in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern has been unusual this year, with an official outbreak now being considered by the Ministry of Health.
The public is urged to follow the guidelines provided by the health authorities to ensure their safety and help curb the spread of EHEC infections.
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