E. Coli have a mutualistic relationship with humans. A mutualistic relationship is one where both organisms benefit. E. Coli can be both beneficial and harmful to humans.
Beneficial:
E. Coli help with the absorption of numerous vitamins, including vitamin K. On the other hand, the host gives back to the E. Coli by supplying nutrients and a safe environment to live in.
Harmful:
There are numerous harmful effects that E. Coli can have on humans.
1. Urinary Tract Infections
UropathogenicE. Coli cause 90% of the urinary tract infections found in humans. The E. Coli go down the urinary tract and reach the bladder, resulting in inflammation. Although urinary tract infections can be treated with antibiotics, they can cause cloudy urine and painful urination.
2. Neonatal Meningitis
Neonatalmeningitis occurs when E. Coli occupy the nasopharynx or the gastrointestinal tract, which is then taken to the meninges by the bloodstream.
3. There are five types E. Coli that infects the intestinal system, resulting in diarrhea.
--Enterotoxigenic E. coli-This branch of E. Coli cause diarrhea by poor water conditions. The diarrhea caused by this type of E. Coli are mainly seen in infants and travelers. --Enteroinvasive E. Coli- This branch of E. Coli cause diarrhea by occupying the epithelial cells in the human colon. --Enteropathic E. Coli- This branch of E. Coli cause diarrhea in infants due to poor water conditions and meat.
--EnteraggregtativeE. Coli- This branch of E. Coli stick to the intestinal mucosa, resulting in diarrhea in infants and children.
--Enterohemorrhagic E. Coli (E. coli O157:H7)-This type of E. Coli can be the most harmful branch in these eubacteria. This is because, if the person does not get treated, s/he can develop Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome. One can get bloody diarrhea and kidney failure due to this strand of E. coli. There are many sources that cause this strand of E. coli to enter one's body; such as contaminated ground beef and unpasteurized milk.