EHEC alarm signal: 22 cases in MV - Danger from onion sausage!

EHEC alarm signal: 22 cases in MV - Danger from onion sausage!

Reports of EHEC infections have recently been increasing in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. According to current reports, a total of 22 cases had been registered as of Monday, including several children and six adults. The severe cases, which have occurred more frequently in the last few weeks, are particularly worrying. The NDR informed that the condition of some sick people, including a little boy from Düsseldorf who requires intensive care, is critical.

A total of seven children and two adults are currently being treated in hospital, all in stable condition. This is alarming news as EHEC infections can range from mild to severe gastrointestinal distress, in some cases causing serious complications. According to reports, children who have hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) are particularly severely affected. The right to medical care seems particularly important in this case, because like that ZDF Reportedly, six children are being treated in intensive care units, while three are even temporarily connected to dialysis machines.

Research into causes is ongoing

As far as the cause of the infections is concerned, there is currently no clear information. Health authorities continue to search for the source of the infection, and sample testing so far has not yielded any concrete results. However, some foods have been raised under suspicion. That's how it became Schleizer Fleisch- und Wurstwaren GmbH prompted to recall onion sausage after toxin-producing EHEC bacteria were detected. This batch with a best-before date of August 27th was available in several federal states, including Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. Customers can return the product and get their money back. However, it remains unclear whether these sausage products are actually linked to the diseases.

Although EHEC is not a new phenomenon, the increase in severe cases since 2011 is still attracting the attention of health authorities. Normally, only one or two EHEC cases with HUS are recorded in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania each year, whereas a striking number have already been registered this year. In 2024, over 130 EHEC cases were reported in the region - a significant increase compared to previous years.

Prevention and safety in everyday life

To minimize the risk of infection, experts advise following basic hygiene rules. According to that Federal Institute for Risk Assessment You should wash your hands thoroughly before preparing food and after touching raw meat. In addition, foods should be stored and prepared separately to avoid cross-contamination. Eating vegetables and fruits that may have come into contact with infected produce should be washed well or, if possible, peeled.

The public's concerns are understandable, but many potential risks can be reduced through simple measures. Sensitive groups, especially children under five and older people, should avoid consuming raw milk and raw meat. The hope remains that the authorities will soon be able to identify a clear source of infection in order to protect the health of people in the region.