Egypt's Ministry of Agriculture has raised the state of alert regarding the E-Coli bacteria. Yesterday Egypt diagnosed what is believed to be the first case of the deadly strain in Egypt in a German tourist. The ministry has raised the alert level for examining animals and meat imported from Europe in the wake of the World Health Organization (WHO)'s announcement that cattle and camels are main sources of E-Coli. A deadly strain of the virus has hit Germany and other parts of Europe. Meanwhile, animal health experts downplayed the seriousness of such bacteria which exists in all animals without any effects. Mahmoud Assem Hakem, professor of microbiology, expected the arrival of the bacteria to Egypt. He said the disease exists in all animals and birds except rabbits. Hakem said the disease is in all objects with a large intestine. He also said Egypt's strains are less dangerous than these which appeared in Germany recently. He said that the danger of the disease comes from a mutation of the bacteria which would turn it to a harmful disease. He also said Egypt has the suitable antibiotics to counter the bacteria. Hakem said that the microbe causes diarrhea, food poisoning and kidney failure. Dr. Ibrahim al-Bendari, a professor of preventive medicine, said the disease will not spread in Egypt through animals or imported meats which are subject to veterinary checks. However, he warned of burgers and non-pasteurized milk products, as they are most dangerous ways to transfer the disease. Al-Bendari advised cooking meat very well to avoid the effects of the bacteria. He said Egypt has all capabilities and drugs to control any possible cases. He also said cattle are a main source for the bacteria. E-Coli transfers to humans through meat products that are not cooked well, milk products and polluted water. Al-Bendari said cooking meat well at 70 degrees will kill the bacteria, according to the WHO.
