Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria live in the intestines of people and animals, and are key to a healthy intestinal tract. Most E. coli strains are harmless, but some can cause diarrhea through contact with contaminated food or water while other strains can cause urinary tract infections, respiratory illness and pneumonia.
Why Is the Study of E. coli a Priority for NIAID?
CDC estimates that 265,000 STEC infections occur each year in the United States. Approximately 36 percent of these infections are caused by E. coli O157:H7.
How Is NIAID Addressing This Critical Topic?
Scientists in NIAID labs and NIAID-supported scientists are using basic, clinical, and applied research to better understand how to detect, treat, and prevent foodborne diseases.
To learn about risk factors for E. coli and current prevention and treatment strategies visit the MedlinePlus E. coli infection site.
What's New
NIAID Now Blog
- NIAID Research—The Director's Cut
August 27, 2018 - Video—Fighting Infection with Phages
June 19, 2018 - Video—Fighting Infection with Phages
June 19, 2018
Prevention
Researchers are exploring vaccines to prevent STEC in animals and humans.