Content Information
HUS and TTP are not spread person to person. If shigella or E. coli EHEC strains are determined to be the cause of the illness see chapters specifically dealing with those diseases.
Note: Because the onset of symptoms of HUS or TTP usually occur within 3 weeks after diarrheal illness, stool cultures taken at the time of HUS or TTP frequently fail to identify a causative agent.
A. Isolation and Quarantine Requirements
Standard Precautions while hospitalized.
B. Protection of Contacts of a Case
Persons caring for the case should practice good hygiene with attention to good handwashing practices.
C. Managing Special Situations
See chapters on specific enteric disease.
Reported Incidence Is Higher than Usual/Outbreak Suspected
If the number of reported cases in your city/town is higher than usual, or if an outbreak is suspected, an investigation is indicated and consideration should be given to early consultation with CADE. Investigate clustered cases in an area or institution to determine source of infection and mode of transmission. A common vehicle (such as water, food or association with a child care center) should be sought and applicable preventive or control measures should be instituted. Control of person-to-person transmission requires special emphasis on personal cleanliness and sanitary disposal of feces. Consult with the epidemiologist on-call at the CADE at (800) 362-2736. CADE can help determine a course of action to prevent further cases and can perform surveillance for cases that may cross several county lines and therefore be difficult to identify at a local level.
Note: Refer to the Iowa’s Foodborne Illness Outbreak Investigation Manualfor comprehensive information on investigating foodborne illness complaints and outbreak.
Iowa Dept. of Public Health, Reviewed 7/15