Abstract
In May–June 2011, a massive outbreak of haemolytic uraemic syndrome caused by enteroaggregative Shiga toxin (Stx)-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) O104:H4 occurred in Europe, which was linked to the consumption of sprouted seeds. As ruminants are known reservoirs of STEC, this study investigated whether cattle could be a reservoir of enteroaggregative STEC O104:H4 and a potential source of transmission to humans. A total of 1468 French cattle were analysed for faecal carriage of the outbreak strain by PCR assays targeting stx2, wzxO104, fliCH4 and aggR genetic markers. None of the faecal samples contained the four markers simultaneously, indicating that cattle is not a reservoir of this recently emerged E. coli pathotype.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
