Screening For The Presence Of Escherichia Coli 0157:H7 In Montana

Abstract

The presence of Escherichia coli 0157:H7, a pathogenic strain of bacteria associated with hemorrhagic colitis and hemolytic uremic syndrome, was screened for in Montana from May through September 1987. Microbiological and biochemical methods of testing were employed in order to determine presumptive and confirmatory isolates of this organism. These tests resulted in 3 confirmed isolates of 124 tested stools providing the first detection of Escherichia coli 0157:H7 ever in the state of Montana. Applications and ramifications of the problem of diagnosis of this bacterial strain, seriousness of disease, and the importance of screening for it are discussed.