The Israeli Health Ministry has reported an outbreak of Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS), a rare condition that has affected 26 people so far this year, according to The Jerusalem Post. The syndrome causes destruction of red blood cells, blood clotting disorders, and kidney damage.
Health officials believe the infections likely originated from poor hygiene or consumption of contaminated food, specifically under-cooked meat, unwashed vegetables, and fruits. HUS typically emerges following severe diarrhea, triggered by a specific E. coli strain that produces Shiga toxin.
The disease is more prevalent among children under five years old and tends to occur during summer months. Worldwide reports of similar outbreaks have been documented, frequently associated with food poisoning or contaminated water sources.
This Fall, Food Poisoning News has featured several stories of a nationwide E. coli outbreak linked to fresh slivered onions served on McDonald’s Quarter Pounder hamburgers where several victims developed HUS after consuming contaminated food from the restaurant chain.
Patients can experience a range of challenging symptoms. Bloody diarrhea often accompanies significant abdominal pain and persistent vomiting. Individuals typically report experiencing weakness and noticing a reduction in urine output. Kidney failure can manifest through visible swelling and elevated blood pressure.
Medical professionals diagnose the condition through comprehensive blood tests. These tests reveal anemia resulting from red blood cell destruction. They also identify low platelet counts and detect severe kidney impairment.
Treatment requires immediate hospitalization and comprehensive medical interventions. Physicians administer intravenous fluids and carefully manage electrolyte balance. Patients with severe kidney failure may require dialysis. In some cases, plasma exchange therapy becomes necessary to address blood vessel damage.
Israel’s Health Ministry has stressed both rigorous prevention strategies and the critical nature of rapid treatment to prevent long-term health complications.
Prevention focuses on comprehensive hygiene practices. Individuals should wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water, paying special attention after using restrooms or handling animals. Proper cleaning of vegetables and fruits before consumption is essential. People should avoid unpasteurized milk and dairy products. Cooking meat thoroughly remains a crucial preventive measure.
Healthcare providers are urged to report suspected cases, particularly for patients experiencing bloody diarrhea in preceding weeks.
Ongoing epidemiological investigations aim to identify infection sources and prevent additional outbreaks. The ministry advised the public to remain on high alert and recommended seeking medical attention for specific warning signs.
Patients should be particularly alert to bloody or mucous diarrhea, unexpected leg swelling, prolonged fever, and unexplained skin bruising that doesn’t fade under pressure.
Commenting on this article, the nation’s leading E. coli lawyer said, “Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome can not only be deadly to children, but also to seniors and those with compromised immune systems. Anyone who suspects they have symptoms of an E. coli infection that has progressed to HUS should seek medical attention as soon as possible.”
