Doctor's 'crucial' urgent advice after E. coli outbreak

The UK Health Security Agency has issued a warning following a nationwide spike in E. coli cases. As a precaution, food manufacturers are recalling at least 60 types of pre-packed sandwiches, wraps and salads sold in major supermarkets due to possible E. coli contamination.

Dr Donald Grant, GP and senior clinical advisor at The Independent Pharmacy, has shared important medical advice on treating symptoms of E. coli infection. These can include vomiting and diarrhoea.

Common symptoms of E. coli Infection

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

“It’s crucial to understand the symptoms that come with diarrhoea. Common side effects include abdominal cramps due to a change in intestinal activity, urgent bowel movements, and bloating. It can also drastically increase dehydration, meaning consuming (safe) water is necessary to reduce the effects and improve health.

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

Treating E. coli symptoms through medicine and diet

Dr Grant said: “Whilst E. coli infection is a nasty illness, its symptoms - diarrhoea and vomiting - can be treated with appropriate medication and dietary awareness. Various treatments are available that can assist with reducing the effects of the infection and returning people to normal health.

“For those suffering from diarrhoea symptoms following the rise in E. coli cases, I recommend Imodium Instant Melts. These tablets contain the active ingredient, loperamide hydrochloride, and dissolve on the tongue, providing relief in as little as one hour after ingesting.

“Additionally, another effective medication I recommend is the FyboCalm Diarrhoea Relief Capsules, which provide long-lasting relief from symptoms. 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 diarrhoea.

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

“Overall, diet can play a big part in reducing the effects of diarrhoea. I suggest avoiding fatty and highly seasoned foods and instead opting for light alternatives such as rice, toast, or bananas. If your symptoms continue to worsen or fail to alleviate, it’s important to book a visit with your GP for further advice.”

Preventive measures and risk reduction

Dr Grant said: "The outbreak we are witnessing could be linked to food manufacturers as the Food Standards Agency (FSA) has recalled supermarket products. Be sure to avoid purchasing and consuming these items.

“E. 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 diarrhoea 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 bugs that cause diarrhoeal illness. Additionally, washing fruit and vegetables thoroughly and cooking food to the recommended temperatures is important.

"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 nursery until 48 hours after symptoms have stopped.

“Most E. coli infections can be managed at home with proper hydration and rest, but severe cases require medical attention. A small number of infected individuals may develop serious complications such as haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS), which can damage the kidneys."

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