Bacterial colitis is an inflammation of the colon caused by specific bacterial infections. It can lead to discomfort, pain, and changes in bowel function. Many forms of bacterial colitis are contagious, meaning the bacteria can spread from an infected person or contaminated source.
Understanding Bacterial Colitis
Bacterial colitis results from specific bacterial infections in the colon. Common bacteria causing contagious colitis include Salmonella, Escherichia coli (E. coli), and Campylobacter. Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) is another cause, often proliferating after antibiotic use and highly contagious due to its spore-forming ability.
How Bacterial Colitis Spreads
The primary mode of transmission for contagious bacterial colitis is the fecal-oral route, where microscopic fecal particles containing bacteria are ingested. This occurs through contaminated food, water, or surfaces. Food can become contaminated if it contacts infected animal feces during processing or if handled by an infected person with unwashed hands.
Contaminated water sources, such as untreated drinking water or recreational water in pools, can also facilitate spread. Person-to-person transmission is also possible, especially in settings with poor hygiene, such as childcare or healthcare facilities. This happens when an infected person does not wash their hands thoroughly after using the toilet, then touches surfaces or others, transferring bacteria.
Preventing Its Spread
Preventing the spread of bacterial colitis relies on rigorous hygiene practices and safe food handling. Thorough handwashing with soap and warm water is a primary defense, especially after using the restroom, changing diapers, and before preparing or eating food. This action reduces the transfer of bacteria from hands to surfaces or food.
Safe food preparation is essential. This involves cooking meats and poultry to their recommended internal temperatures to kill bacteria. Avoiding cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods, by using separate cutting boards and utensils, is important. Additionally, consuming pasteurized dairy products and avoiding untreated water sources minimizes exposure to bacteria. For those infected or caring for someone with bacterial colitis, increased cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces is advised to prevent further transmission.
When to Seek Medical Care
Prompt medical attention is important if bacterial colitis symptoms become severe or persistent. Seek care for severe abdominal pain, high fever, or blood or mucus in stool. Signs of dehydration, such as extreme thirst, dry mouth, reduced urination, dizziness, or lightheadedness, warrant medical evaluation.
For vulnerable populations, including infants, the elderly, or those with weakened immune systems, medical consultation is advised even with milder symptoms. A healthcare professional can diagnose the specific bacterial cause through stool sample analysis and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include antibiotics, to manage the infection.