Yes, E. coli poisoning can come from a contaminated water well. E. coli poisoning is also called a STEC infection. STEC is an acronym for Shiga toxin-producing E. coli. If you fail to have your water well serviced regularly and your well water tested frequently, King Water Wells advises that the well can become contaminated with harmful bacteria such as the bacteria that causes E. coli. The CDC discusses E. coli poisoning on their website. Let’s go over some of the information they provide.
STEC (E. coli) Poisoning Symptoms
Although the CDC advises that E. coli symptoms vary from individual to individual, the most common symptoms are diarrhea, severe stomach cramping, and vomiting. E. coli poisoning will introduce blood into the diarrhea, which can be very scary. If you have blood in your stool or vomit, head to the emergency room or urgent care immediately.
In some cases, you might also run a fever if you have a STEC infection. Generally, the fever is lower than 101 degrees Fahrenheit. This is considered a mild fever that should not be too much of a cause for alarm. You should start to feel better within five to seven days.
Serious STEC Poisoning Symptoms
This being said, some people react severely to E. coli poisoning. When this happens, they run fevers higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit. They may have a ton of blood in their diarrhea, and they may vomit to point of being dehydrated.
If you cannot keep even liquids down and are barely passing any urine, you need to go to the doctor right away. This is a sign of severe dehydration caused by the E. coli poisoning. Do not take chances. Seek professional medical help.
E. coli Poisoning Timeframe
As we mentioned above, you should not be sick for longer than seven days. If you remain ill, head to the nearest emergency room for professional care. In terms of how long it takes to get sick, three to four days after E. coli ingestion is the general rule of thumb. This being said, it may take as long as 10 days for E. coli poisoning symptoms to appear.
E. coli Poisoning Avoidance
To prevent E. coli introduction into your water well, make certain to test your water regularly. The CDC also recommends the following to prevent E. coli infections:
- Wash your hands regularly; practice good hygiene
- Wash all fruits and vegetables you plan to consume
- Cook roasts and steaks to at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit
- Cook ground beef, pork, and chicken to 160 degrees Fahrenheit
- Avoid cross-contamination when preparing foods
- Do not consume raw or unpasteurized dairy products
You should also avoid consuming water from pools, streams, and lakes. There’s a possibility this water is contaminated.
Call King Water Wells in Rockford, MI, today to have your well water tested for E. coli and other bacteria. We will also inspect your water well to make sure everything is okay.