E. Coli Data Sheet There are hundreds of identified strains of Escherichia coli (E. coli), with over 700 recognized types. While most are harmless inhabitants of human and animal intestines, some are classified into various pathogenic groups (pathotypes) that can cause illness.

The Six Main Dangerous E. coli Pathotypes:

1. Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC): Also known as EHEC (Enterohemorrhagic E. coli), this is the most dangerous type, including strain O157:H7, causing severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting.
2. Enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC): The leading cause of “traveler’s diarrhea”.
3. Enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC): A common cause of diarrhea in infants.
4. Enteroinvasive E. coli (EIEC): Causes dysentery-like diarrhea.
5. Enteroaggregative E. coli (EAEC): Causes acute and chronic diarrhea.
6. Diffusely adherent E. coli (DAEC): Causes diarrhea, primarily in children.

The Illinois Department of Public Health recommends testing Private Water Wells once a year. Contact your Local Health Department about taking a sample of your private water well to test for E. coli. East Side Health District-Environmental Health Division 618-271-8722 if you live in the townships of Canteen, Centreville, East St. Louis, or Stites in St. Clair County, Illinois.

Well Sampling for Coliform & Nitrate

IDPH – How To Disinfect a Private Water Well

Disinfection of water wells, Drilled Wells

IDPH – Cleaning Up After Flood and Sewer Overflows

After The Flood PDF