Diagnosing E. Coli Infections
E. Coli Fact Sheet
(PDF 18 KB)
Anytime a person has a rapid onset of bloody diarrhea, E.
coli O157:H7 should be considered as a possible cause.
Diagnosis is made by culturing stool specimens.
Many laboratories can identify E. coli bacteria, but may
not be able to determine the serotype (O157:H7). Because there are
hundreds of serotypes and many of which are considered normal for humans
to carry, serotyping should be specified.
Serotyping can be performed at the Colorado Department
of Public Health and Environment's laboratory.
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