E. coli
E. coli is an abbreviation for Escherichia coli, and refers to a large, diverse group of bacteria. While the vast majority of these bacteria will not make humans sick, certain kinds of E. coli can cause illnesses including diarrhea, respiratory infection, urinary tract infection, and pneumonia.
STEC (Shiga toxin-producing E. Coli)
The most common type of illness-causing E. coli is known as STEC. People of any age can become infected with STEC bacteria. STEC infection begins when a person swallows STEC. Symptoms of STEC infection are gastrointestinal and include severe stomach cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea. Non-specific supportive therapy such as hydration and rest is usually prescribed to a person who has contracted STEC; antibiotics are not effective against STEC bacteria.
STEC infections can be prevented by thorough hand washing after using the bathroom, changing diapers, and before preparing or eating food. Always wash your hands after contact with animals. Be certain to cook all meat thoroughly, avoid unpasteurized dairy products, and avoid swallowing water when swimming.
Prevention
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Here are some good prevent tips from the Mayo Clinic.
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Avoid pink or bloody meat, such as hamburgers. Meat, especially if grilled, is likely to brown before it’s completely cooked.
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Drink pasteurized milk and juices.
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Wash raw produce carefully and thoroughly. Leafy greens are especially difficult to wash off any E. coli, so be extra thorough with those.
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Wash countertops, cutting boards, and utensils in hot, soapy water for at least two minutes.
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Keep raw foods separate while preparing your foods; use separate cutting foods for different foods.
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And always wash your hands before and during preparation, and before and after eating. Make sure your family does the same.
The CDC has more information about E. coli.