Since June 12, around twenty people have been victims of glairo-wandering diarrhea following an infection by the bacteria Escherichia coli, 9 of which have developed hemolytic and uremic syndrome (SHU). These massive poisoning can be fatal, a 12-year-old girl died from the infection. Faced with this alarming situation, a question arises: why does this bacteria strike essentially the youngest? Dr Gérald Kierzek, medical director of True Medical, brings us elements of response.
E.coli infections: 9 children have developed a severe form of the disease
In a statement released yesterday during the day, ARS Hauts-de-France drew up an “assessment” of the sick.
“Since June 12, 22 cases have been recorded: 21 children and 1 elderly person have been taken care of for severe digestive symptomatology, 9 of them have developed hemolytic and uremic syndrome (Shu). Since the last point of situation, 3 new cases have been recorded, including 2 children and 1 elderly person who have not declared the syndrome. Today, 10 people remain hospitalized, including 4 are dialysis. regain their home. she said.
Fully mobilized alongside the prefecture, the Departmental Directorate for the Protection of Populations (DDPP) and Public Health France, ARS explains pursuing itselfs “Investigations to find the origin of contamination.” Indeed, the meat samples taken within the six Saint-Quentinoises targeted butcheries are still being analyzed. However, at this stage, the most likely cause of contamination remains the consumption of meat infected with the bacteria Escherichia coli – hypothesis validated by the Minister of Health, Yannick Neuder.
However, how to explain that only children are affected by this poisoning? What about the rest of the population, who probably consumed meat? Here are the explanatory paths of Dr Gérald Kierzek.
Yes, children are “more sensitive to bacteria”
Children would be more sensitive to the E.coli bacteria “For several important physiological reasons“, confides us the medical director of True Medical. Indeed, they would present:
- An immature immune system : “The children’s defense system is not yet fully developed, which makes them less able to effectively fight toxins produced by certain strains of E.coli “;
- A high risk of hemolytic and uremic syndrome (Shu) :: “It is estimated that, for up to 10% of patients, E.Coli (producer) infection of Shigatoxins can evolve in Shu. This serious syndrome mainly affects children under the age of 5 and can cause acute renal failure, severe anemia and neurological disorders”;
- Fragile renal functions: “Children’s kidneys are more vulnerable to toxins (shigatoxins) produced by E.Coli, which explains why the Shu develops more frequently in them”;
- Quick dehydration :: “Children dehydrate faster than adults in severe diarrhea, which worsens their general condition.”
But they are not the only victims: other populations are particularly vulnerable to the bacteria. “”These are the elderly, pregnant women, immunocompromised people and people with chronic diseases “, confirms the medical director of True Medical.
To avoid contracting this infection, these more fragile profiles must redouble their daily caution. “If you have bought products since June 1 in one of these six butcher shops, do not consume them. If you or your children have consumed foodstuffs from these six establishments, watch your state of health. Do 15 without waiting in case of glairo-wandering diarrhea. If you or your children have no symptoms, it is not necessary to contact or consult a doctor, nor call the 15” advises ARS Hauts-de-France in its last point.