Ohio

Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome in Ohio

Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS) is a serious complication characterized by the destruction of red blood cells (hemolytic anemia), low platelet count (thrombocytopenia), and acute kidney injury. It most commonly develops after an infection with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), primarily affecting young children following diarrheal illness. Track Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome activity and outbreaks specific to Ohio.

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What is Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome?

Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome was first formally described in 1955 by Dr. Conrad Gasser and his colleagues. Its strong association with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), particularly the O157:H7 strain, was firmly established following outbreaks in the 1980s, highlighting its significant link to foodborne pathogens.

Symptoms

  • Bloody diarrhea and abdominal pain (often preceding HUS)
  • Pale skin (pallor) and fatigue due to anemia
  • Easy bruising, petechiae (small red/purple spots), or unusual bleeding
  • Decreased urination and swelling (edema) in the face, hands, or feet
  • Irritability, confusion, or seizures (in more severe cases)

Transmission

HUS itself is not directly transmissible, but the underlying STEC infection that often triggers it is primarily spread through the fecal-oral route. This includes consuming contaminated food (e.g., undercooked ground beef, unpasteurized dairy/juices, contaminated produce), contaminated water, or direct contact with infected animals. Person-to-person transmission is also possible, especially in childcare settings and households, if hygiene practices are insufficient.

Contagious Period: Varies by disease

Prevention

  • Thorough handwashing, especially after using the restroom, changing diapers, or handling raw meat.
  • Cooking ground beef to an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C) and avoiding undercooked meat.
  • Avoiding unpasteurized milk, juices, and cider.
  • Washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating, especially if consumed raw.
  • Preventing cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods in the kitchen.
  • Avoiding swallowing water in lakes, pools, or untreated recreational water sources.

Ohio Health Resources

Local health department information and state-specific prevention guidance

We're Monitoring Ohio

Our AI-powered surveillance continuously monitors Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome activity across Ohio. We track data from state health departments, local hospitals, CDC reports, and 50+ global health sources to provide early warning of emerging threats.

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Ohio Health Department

For official state health alerts, vaccination locations, and public health guidance specific to Ohio, visit your state health department's website.

→ Ohio Department of Health → Find Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome Vaccination Near You → CDC Travel Health Notices

Protecting Yourself in Ohio

Whether you live in Ohio, are traveling there, or have family in the state, understanding Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome prevention is essential. Follow these evidence-based prevention measures:

Prevention Measures

  • Thorough handwashing, especially after using the restroom, changing diapers, or handling raw meat.
  • Cooking ground beef to an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C) and avoiding undercooked meat.
  • Avoiding unpasteurized milk, juices, and cider.
  • Washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating, especially if consumed raw.
  • Preventing cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods in the kitchen.
  • Avoiding swallowing water in lakes, pools, or untreated recreational water sources.

When to Seek Care

If you experience symptoms of Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome in Ohio, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment improve outcomes significantly.

Emergency symptoms: If you experience severe symptoms, difficulty breathing, or signs of dehydration, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

Expert Resources & References

Trusted information from leading health organizations

CDC

Official guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

View CDC Resources →

WHO

Global disease surveillance and guidelines from the World Health Organization

View WHO Resources →

Research

Latest peer-reviewed research and clinical studies

View Research →

Medically Reviewed Content

Disease information on Virus Watcher is reviewed by our Chief Epidemiologist, a former CDC lead analyst for FluSight forecasting. Outbreak data is aggregated from verified sources including BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ national health agencies. This information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice.

Last reviewed: 2026-06-03

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