Over the past three years, more than 3,998 people have been admitted to hospitals in southeast London due to E. coli infections, with cases continuing to rise both regionally and nationally. The bacterial infection, known as Escherichia coli O157 or Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), can cause severe symptoms such as stomach pain, diarrhoea, and in some cases, kidney failure.

According to data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), these cases were recorded by four major NHS trust hospitals in and around southeast London between June 2021 and June 2024. The hospitals reporting these cases include King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Lewisham & Greenwich NHS Trust, Guys & St. Thomas NHS Foundation Trust, and Dartford & Gravesham NHS Trust.

Hospital Reports:

• King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust reported the highest number of E. coli cases, with a total of 1,370 cases. October 2022 saw the peak with 48 cases.
• Lewisham & Greenwich NHS Trust recorded 1,058 cases, with the highest monthly figures (39 cases) reported in May 2022 and September 2023.
• Guys & St. Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust had 810 cases, with peaks of 33 cases in both November 2022 and May 2024.
• Dartford & Gravesham NHS Trust reported 769 cases, with a high of 33 cases in June 2023.

E. coli is commonly found in the gut and faeces of animals, particularly cattle, and can be transmitted through contaminated food, water, or contact with infected animals or people. Symptoms typically appear three to four days after infection and can last up to two weeks.

Louise Bishop, a consultant in health protection at UKHSA’s South London health protection team, emphasized the importance of hygiene in preventing the spread of STEC. “E. coli are a diverse group of bacteria that normally live in the intestines of humans and animals. Currently, there are no E. coli outbreaks in south London, and the UKHSA continues to monitor levels of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli across the country,” Bishop stated.

She added that while STEC is highly infectious, it can be controlled through good hygiene practices, such as thorough handwashing after using the toilet, handling raw meat, before meals, and after contact with animals.

Dartford & Gravesham NHS Trust confirmed that the rise in E. coli cases is being observed both locally and nationally. The trust highlighted that one of the leading causes of E. coli infections is urinary tract infections, and they are actively campaigning to encourage patients to stay hydrated as a preventive measure.

The UKHSA has issued advice for those experiencing symptoms such as diarrhoea and vomiting, stressing that affected individuals should avoid preparing food for others and stay away from hospitals or care homes to prevent spreading the infection. Individuals should also refrain from returning to work, school, or nursery until 48 hours after symptoms have ceased.

As the number of E. coli cases continues to climb, healthcare providers and public health officials are urging the public to remain vigilant and follow recommended hygiene practices to reduce the risk of infection.