What is the most significant symptom of infection by EnteroPATHOGENIC Escherichia coli?

The most significant symptom of infection by EnteroPATHOGENIC Escherichia coli (EPEC) is watery diarrhea. This type of E. coli primarily affects infants and young children, leading to severe diarrhea that can be significant enough to cause dehydration and other complications. The pathogenic mechanism involves the bacteria adhering to the intestinal lining and disrupting the normal function of the gut, resulting in the characteristic watery stools.

While other symptoms such as nausea or fever may occur with EPEC infections, they are not the defining features of this particular pathogen. Hemorrhagic colitis, on the other hand, is more closely associated with Enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC), which is a different strain and leads to more severe gastrointestinal symptoms, including bloody diarrhea. Thus, the focus on watery diarrhea as the most significant symptom highlights the specific impact of EPEC on the gastrointestinal system.