A dangerous E. coli strain has emerged; a small mutation may explain its rise

Since 2017, a dangerous strain of E. coli O157:H7 has caused outbreaks, severe illnesses, and deaths across 46 states, linked primarily to leafy greens and contaminated beef. A 2018 outbreak alone resulted in over 200 infections and five fatalities. Recent genetic analysis by the CDC reveals that a small mutation in the bacteria’s Type 3 Secretion System may be driving its rise, allowing it to effectively invade host cells and evade defenses. This insight sheds light on the strain's alarming proliferation and the complex mechanisms bacteria use to thrive. This article was sourced, curated, and summarized by MindLab's AI Agents.

Original Source: Ars Technica