Who's at Risk?

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Escherichia Coli can infect everyone, of every gender, of every age.  There are no vaccines for it, as it is a bacteria, and antibiotics are not recommended due to their known cause of complications in those with E. Coli.
Although it can potentially infect everyone, there are of course certain people at greater risk to contracting this disease, especially the elderly and young (1).  Here is a brief list of things that will place people at higher risk to getting E. Coli:

• Immune Deficiency: Those with weak immune systems, and with diseases that weaken their immune systems such as AIDS, are at higher risk of getting E. Coli.  Their bodies will have a much harder time fighting off the bacteria and their symptoms will many times be worse than those with strong immune systems. 
• Stomach reduction surgery: People who have gotten stomach reduction surgeries have less stomach acid to fight of the Escherichia Coli bacteria, increasing their risk of the bacteria infecting them.
• Certain Foods: Eating certain foods can put you at a major risk, perhaps at a higher risk than all other factors. Eating uncooked meats, unpasteurized milk, apple juice, and apple cider are what you should stay away from. These foods, since untreated, can contain the Escherichia Coli bacteria and will cause the disease if consumed.
• Age: The young and elderly are at increased risk as well.  This may be due to their weakened immune systems, as young children's immune systems are still not fully developed and the elderly's immune systems begin to weaken with age.
• Irresponsible cooks:  Many times, people get E. Coli after having a meal at a restaurant who's cooks did not take the necessary precautions to prepare their food properly.  It has happened too many times where a chef does not cook the food well enough, or does not wash his hand properly before beginning to cook again. If you suspect foul play at the restaurant, or it has had previous reviews of people attending getting food poisoning, stay away! (For more information on this, check out out blog post "EAT SMART!" It will go into more detail on healthy choices at restaurants if you are worried about Escherichia Coli in the meat.)

If you know you are at a higher risk of contracting E. Coli, take the necessary precautions to stay healthy.  Stay away from the uncooked foods, and if you have a weakened immune system, be sure to ask a doctor what vitamins you can take to help your situation. Now that you know the risk factors, always remember to stay one step ahead and prepared for any health situation!


References:

1.  "E. Coli Risks - E. Coli Lawyers, Food Poisioning Attorneys - Fred Pritzker." Personal Injury Lawyer MN in Best Lawyers Minnesota Wrongful Death Attorneys Minneapolis - PritzkerOlsen, P.A. Web. 1 Apr. 2011. http://www.pritzkerlaw.com/ecoli-risks/index.htm#children.