Latest news with #EColi
The Irish Sun
25-05-2025
- Health
- The Irish Sun
I got a horrifying 7-year infection after my boyfriend farted in my face – docs were stunned when they looked up my nose
A WOMAN says she was left with a seven-year infection after her boyfriend farted in her face. Though the pair parted ways, Christine Connell was plagued by a 7 Christine Connell claims she got a sinus infection after her boyfriend farted in her face 7 Her partner let rip while getting ready for bed in front of her Credit: Instagram @christinexploring 7 The cause of her persistent infection left doctors stumped for years Credit: Getty She traced her symptoms back to a fateful night spent in a hotel room. Christine was lying in bed recovering from knee surgery when her boyfriend The content creator claims she's been battling sinus infections in the seven years since. But she didn't think to connect her health issues to the gassy incident until doctors took a culture sample from her nose. Read more on E. coli Sinus infections are inflammation of the sinuses - cavities in the nose, cheeks and forehead - and are common after a cold or a bout of flu. They can be caused by a virus and tend to clear up on their own in a matter of weeks, though they can linger for longer if caused by bacteria or a fungus. Christine - known as @christinexploring online - said "I've had a persistent sinus infection ever since he and I stayed in a hotel one night after I had surgery and he farted terribly." Most read in Health "I couldn't breathe," Christine added, saying she'd "There's not anything that even compares to that." Food Standards Agency explains E Coli Christine grappled with constant sinus infections - which cause facial pain, a stuffy nose, thick green snot and fever - in the years afterwards. She even had a barrage of tests and scans to try to get to the bottom of it. But her doctors - including four ear, nose and throat specialists - seemed unable to figure out the cause of her infection. The travel influencer took to TikTok to reveal the results of her sinus tests, in a clip captioned "I wish I were joking". 7 Tests revealed Christine's sinuses were colonised with 7 'You usually don't get in your sinuses because is from poop,' Christine said Credit: TikTok @christinexploring "It is she announced. Escherichia coli - most often referred to as - is a group of bacteria that normally lives in the gut without causing harm. But some strains can make people sick, causing gut and urinary tract infections. infections happen when you ingest bacteria from poop that are too small to see, whether through eating contaminated foods and drinks, touching germ-laden surfaces or not washing your hands properly after using the loo. What are the symptoms of Most strains are harmless but some can cause serious food poisoning. That is the case with Shiga toxin-producing ( Some people who are exposed to STEC do not become ill. Others develop stomach cramps and bloody diarrhoea. Symptoms can also include vomiting, fever, and chills. In severe cases, the infection can damage organs, such as the kidneys. Symptoms can appear anywhere from one to ten days after exposure but usually appear around three to four days after exposure. Most of those affected by the bug will get better without treatment within a week. Sufferers are advised to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Are you at risk of getting it? People can become infected by: Eating contaminated food Contact with infected animals either directly or through inadvertent contact with animal faeces, for example at farms, petting farms and campsites Contact with other people who have the illness (through inadequate hand hygiene after using the toilet, before food handling - particularly in households, nurseries, infant schools, or both Drinking water from inadequately treated water supplies Swimming or playing in contaminated water such as ponds or streams STEC are very infectious because very few bacteria are needed to cause illness. This means that disease can spread easily within families and in other settings such as day nurseries, primary schools, nursing homes and hospitals where there are young children and others who might have difficulty keeping clean. How can you protect yourself from STEC? An STEC infection can be prevented by taking the following precautions: Cook all minced meat products (burgers, meatloaf, meatballs) thoroughly, until the colour is the same all the way through, and no blood runs from them Ensure refrigerators are working correctly - bacteria grow more quickly at temperatures over 4 o C Only leave cooked foods, meat and dairy products out at room temperature for a short time Store uncooked meats below-cooked meats and salad vegetables to avoid dripping juices onto ready-to-eat food Store uncooked and cooked meats on different plates, and avoid all contact between raw and cooked meats Thoroughly wash all salad vegetables and do not prepare them with utensils that have also been used for raw meat Children and the elderly who are particularly susceptible to the severe effects of STEC should avoid eating or drinking unpasteurised dairy products People who have been ill should not prepare food for others for at least 48 hours after they have recovered Boil any drinking water if you are unsure of its source Do not swim in water that you think may be contaminated by cattle and sheep in nearby fields Wash your hands thoroughly after using the toilet (or helping others including changing nappies), handling raw meat, before meals and after contact with animals Source: PHE + USCDC "You usually don't get in your sinuses because is from poop," Christine said. "So I don't know, how does that get in your sinuses unless you have a boyfriend who farts disgustingly and you are forced to inhale it because you are immobile after ankle surgery?" next to hers. "He was not clothed and standing between the two beds," she said. "His butt was facing me and that is when the fart happened." Christine stressed that "he was not intending to fart in my face, he was just getting in bed and [her] face happened to be in the path of the fart that was released". When I say it was the worst fart I have ever smelled in my life, I truly mean that Christine Connell She went on: "I had just had ankle surgery that I was recovering from, so I imagine that my "Maybe in another circumstance, if I had been healthy, it wouldn't have happened. "And also, when I say it was the worst fart I have ever smelled in my life, I truly mean that. "So, I think there were just a lot of factors combined that made this possible." But Christine added that her bizarre ordeal was "definitely rare". "I think it's actually more common to get pink eye from someone farting in your face," she said. Can you really get from farts? 7 Professor Franklin Joseph said it wasn't really possible to get E. coli from farts Credit: Getty In the comments of her initial video, Christine acknowledged that the poo bacteria could have entered her sinuses some other way, during the surgery she'd just undergone, for example. One viewer pointed out that is a common cause of nosocomial sinusitis, which is sinusitis that develops in a hospital setting. "The infections often occur after medical procedures like nasal intubation or nasogastric tubing," they wrote, to which Christine replied: "I'm not sure if that makes it better or worse." Professor Franklin Joseph, consultant physician, head of Dr Frank's Clinic, shared his thoughts on the clip. He told Sun Health: "While it certainly makes for an eye-catching TikTok, the idea of developing a sinus infection from someone passing gas is, scientifically speaking, extremely unlikely." The doctor - who shares health advice on his own TikTok - added: " is a type of bacteria that lives naturally in the gut and is commonly passed through contaminated food, water or direct faecal contact - but not through air in the way flatulence works. "The gas itself doesn't carry bacteria. "For to reach the sinuses, it would need to travel through a direct route such as via the bloodstream or through contaminated hands or objects coming into contact with the nasal passages - not from breathing in someone's flatulence in a hotel room. "That said, finding in the sinuses is rare but not impossible. "In immunocompromised patients or following trauma or poor hygiene, unusual bacteria can occasionally colonise areas where they don't belong. "But it's far more likely this individual's sinus infection had a more conventional cause - and the result was a surprising secondary finding, not the origin story. "Ultimately, while this story has gone viral for its shock value, it's not something the average person should be concerned about. "You can share a room - or even a bed - with someone and not worry about developing a seven-year sinus infection from their digestive habits." 7 Christine's since tried to flush the bacteria out of her sinuses Credit: TikTok @christinexploring
The Sun
23-05-2025
- Health
- The Sun
Here's why you're cleaning the kitchen sink wrong – it could be dirtier than your toilet
A CLEANING expert has warned that people are probably cleaning their kitchen sink wrong. Despite being an area of the home associated with cleaning, it is often one of the most germ-ridden spots. 1 Plumbworld, bathroom and kitchen experts, warn that improper cleaning techniques can put folk at risk of illness if not properly addressed. While toilets are regularly disinfected using strong cleaners, kitchen sinks often receive just a quick rinse. This is far from sufficient. Between raw meat, dairy, dirty dishes and even pet bowls, your sink is exposed to high levels of bacteria every day. A spokesman from Plumbworld explains: 'Many people assume the bathroom is dirtier than the kitchen, but studies have shown that sinks can contain more E. coli and other harmful bacteria than the average toilet bowl. "The moist, food-rich environment allows germs to thrive, especially when cleaning is neglected. "Just because a sink looks clean doesn't mean it's germ-free. "Proper daily cleaning habits are essential to keep your kitchen safe and hygienic. "By understanding where germs collect and adjusting your cleaning routine, you can dramatically improve your household's health and hygiene. " Small daily actions make a big difference when it comes to avoiding bacteria build-up in the kitchen." Common cleaning mistakes for the kitchen sink include using only warm water without soap or disinfectant and ignoring the plughole and overflow area, which collect grime. While people often leave sponges or cloths in the sink, allowing bacteria to spread, and fail to clean after rinsing raw meat or fish, which can introduce pathogens. The best tips are daily cleaning – wash the sink basin with hot water and washing-up liquid every day - and disinfecting it with an antibacterial spray, or a mix of vinegar and bicarbonate of soda to break down grease and sanitise. Flushing the drain by poring boiling water down the plughole daily to help clear build-up and reduce odours can also help. While regularly washing your sponges, brushes, and cloths and replacing items when they begin to smell or break down is key.
CBS News
18-05-2025
- Health
- CBS News
Boil water order lifted for affected customers in 5 Massachusetts towns
A boil water order that was issued for some people in towns in southeastern Massachusetts was lifted Sunday afternoon. On Friday, customers of the Abington/Rockland Joint Water Works were told not to use water without boiling it first because tests showed the presence of total coliform bacteria and E. coli. Towns serviced by that water system include Abington, Rockland, Pembroke, Hanson and Whitman. "We are pleased to report that the problem has been corrected and that it is no longer necessary to boil water prior to consumption," the Joint Water Works said in a statement. "We apologize for any inconvenience and thank you for your patience." It's still unclear how the bacteria may have entered the water system. E. coli has the potential to cause serious illness, with symptoms including diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting and fever. In Abington on Friday, residents brought bottles and jugs to fill at an ice and spring water station. What do after boil water order lifted Even though the boil water order has been lifted and tap water is now safe to use, town officials are still recommending that affected customers take some precautionary steps. The Abington Health Department says people should run cold water taps for several minutes to flush their lines, throw out any ice made when the boil order was in effect, and to replace all water filters, including those for the refrigerator, faucets or under-sink systems. More information can be found on this fact sheet from the state.
CBS News
16-05-2025
- Health
- CBS News
Boil water order issued for 5 Massachusetts towns
A boil water order has been issued for five Massachusetts towns: Abington, Rockland, Pembroke, Hanson, and Whitman. The Abington Rockland Joint Water Works says the order is effective immediately for all residents in those five towns after a recent routine water test showed total coliform bacteria and E. coli in the water. "This is a serious matter, and we're taking urgent steps to protect public health," the Abington Health Department said in a Facebook post. Hingham was previously listed as part of the boil water order by the Abington-Rockland Joint Water Works, but it has since been revised. The town and the Weir River Water System said that most of its customers are not affected by the bacterial contamination. People living on Abington Street near the Rockland line are impacted. They said the order should be lifted within 48-72 hours. What to do during a boil water order Here is what you need to do if you are in Abington, Rockland, Pembroke, Hanson, or Whitman. Boil tap water for one full minute before drinking it. Use bottled water for drinking, brushing teeth, making ice, cooking, washing dishes, bathing, and food preparation. Throw out all ice, formula, uncooked food, and beverages that used tap water on or before May 14, 2025. The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection has more information on its website, including a fact sheet about boil water orders. Signs of waterborne illness Both E. Coli and total coliform bacteria are present in most people's and animals' digestive tracts, but some strains can cause serious illness. If you believe you have contracted a waterborne illness from the tap water in those towns, seek medical help. Most E. Coli infections can begin three to five days after drinking or eating something contaminated with the bacteria, according to the Cleveland Clinic. However, some strains may begin to show symptoms up to 10 days after consuming E. Coli. The Cleveland Clinic says that symptoms to watch out for include watery and bloody diarrhea, stomach pain and cramps, low fever, and loss of appetite.
Daily Mail
14-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Partner of 30-year-old man feared brain dead after food poisoning 'from £3 supermarket sandwich' issues urgent warning
A 30-year-old man was feared brain dead after becoming ill with food poisoning from what is believed to be a £3 supermarket chicken sandwich, his family has said. Blake Pennell was in the prime of his life when he suffered a rare stroke after contracting E. Coli that left him hospitalised for nearly a year. Today, the 3D artist is unable to sit up or stand but has made slow progress and can move his head and mouth words at his devoted partner Lauren Hale. Lauren, originally from Norwich, Norfolk, said: 'Blake has been through the ringer and he's fought it all. 'You never think someone is going to have a stroke at this age and you never think anything like this could happen to you. 'He is starting to get his life back and it makes it all worth it.' Lauren, 29, believes a chicken salad sandwich from a local supermarket could have contained E. coli. In May and June 2024, the UK experienced a major E. coli outbreak that affected more than 270 people and led to numerous hospitalisations. Several supermarkets including Aldi, Asda, Sainsbury's, Morrisons, Boots and the Co-op were affected by the outbreak, which was initially linked to salad leaves in sandwiches. Blake, from Loddon, Norfolk, had been 'very poorly' since June 14, 2024, when Lauren said he could barely move from the sofa. A week later, on June 22, Blake collapsed in the bathroom while vomiting. Lauren, who relocated to Stoke-on-Trent with Blake for his work, said: 'His speech was normal, his face was okay and he could put his arms above his head. 'We didn't know it was a stroke because a stroke is not always what people think it is. 'None of the "FAST" symptoms were there.' FAST is an acronym to help identify the key signs of a stroke: face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulties, and time to call 999. Blake was carried out of his home by a neighbour and driven straight to A&E at the Royal Stoke Hospital. Lauren said: 'The hospital didn't recognise it was a stroke initially either and it was an hour after he was admitted that his speech slurred. 'Everybody kicked up a gear and gave him the scan.' Blake was diagnosed with a basilar artery stroke - when the basilar artery, which supplies blood to the back of the brain, is blocked. It makes up just one per cent of all strokes. Blake had a thrombectomy - a procedure that physically removes a blood clot from an artery - and was sent to the stroke recovery ward. The following day, however, Lauren rushed back to the hospital as Blake was being wheeled in for emergency surgery. Doctors told her he had developed cerebral tonsil herniation - a condition where part of the cerebellum descends into the spinal canal and causes swelling. Lauren said: 'Blake had a posterior craniotomy by one of the top neurosurgeons in the country - most people don't make it off the operating table.' Blake spent four and a half weeks in a medical coma while on a ventilator and with a tracheostomy. Altogether, he has spent the last eight months in the Royal Stoke Hospital, recovering slowly after doctors originally feared he could be brain dead. Lauren, who is considering going into occupational therapy after Blake's diagnosis, said: 'We found out a few weeks after that he had in his system and it can cause a clotting disorder which can cause a stroke. 'There's no other reason he would have had a stroke - he doesn't drink or smoke and he's healthy. 'We believe it came from a chicken salad sandwich bought from a supermarket as he got meal deals from there all the time. 'In the early days doctors said he could be brain dead. We just kept on believing that wasn't the case. 'I spent every day with him and I actually still do. 'I began to notice small things. Once with the nurses, I was referencing a family joke and Blake wiggled his eyebrows at me. 'His eyes were closed but I thought "That's a sign". 'By Christmas time, he was nodding and shaking his head.' Blake's brain damage has now been assessed as minimal and Lauren is hopeful that after rehabilitation and physio, he will be looking at a good quality of life. She currently commutes a three hour round trip by public transport to see him every day - 200 miles away from their families in Norwich, Norfolk. Lauren said: 'He can move his right arm and leg and he is communicating through a tablet. 'Blake can't sit up or stand but he does have head control in his wheelchair. 'He's started to mouth words at me including "I miss you". 'People need to know that a stroke is not just for older people and the symptoms may not be typical.'
