E. coli O157:H7 is responsible for which acute disease?

E. coli O157:H7 is known to cause hemorrhagic colitis, which is characterized by severe abdominal cramps and bloody diarrhea. This specific strain of E. coli produces a Shiga toxin that damages the lining of the intestines, leading to inflammation and bleeding. In severe cases, it can cause complications such as hemolytic uremic syndrome, which can lead to kidney failure.

In contrast, cholera is caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae and is primarily associated with severe watery diarrhea due to the cholera toxin. Typhoid fever is caused by Salmonella enterica serotype Typhi and presents with prolonged fever, abdominal pain, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Norovirus infection, which causes gastroenteritis, is characterized by vomiting and diarrhea, often in outbreaks associated with contaminated food or surfaces. Each of these diseases has distinct causes and symptoms, making hemorrhagic colitis the appropriate identification for E. coli O157:H7.