For example, simple and inexpensive white vinegar is very effective at killing E. coli, salmonella and shigella bacteria, says Duberg. "It's good for nearly everything — from soaking the vegetables to washing the floors," she says. "Mix it with enough baking soda to make a paste and you'll get the scum out of your bathroom." Most of the bacteria E. coli are harmless to humans, but there are rare types that release a toxin and cause diseases that affect the blood and other parts of the body. E. coli contamination can cause bloody stools, severe anemia, traveler’s diarrhea, and even kidney failure in extreme cases. Drink plenty of liquids, especially water, to help flush out bacteria. Urinate often, especially when you feel the need. Wipe from front to back after urinating or having a bowel movement. Take showers rather than baths. Gently wash the skin around your vagina and anus daily using a mild soap and plenty of water. Dr. Rajapakse says E. coli bacteria can create some stomach-turning symptoms, such as abdominal pain and nausea. But it can get worse. "There's a specific type of E. coli.," says Dr. Rajapakse "But some members of the E. coli family have given the group a bad name," says Mr Zimmer. Though the strain O104 is causing severe illness and deaths in the current outbreak, there are hundreds of Escherichia coli, or E. coli, are a diverse group of bacteria. They typically thrive within the intestines of healthy animals. And, most of the time, they're perfectly harmless. For the most part, the “bad” or pathogenic E. coli strains have the same collection of genes, or genome, as the E. coli that normally live in our gut. But pathogenic E. coli also have a few extra genes that contain the information needed to produce components that make these strains harmful. The symptoms of E. Coli infection in urine can vary from person to person, but some of the most common symptoms include: Pain or burning sensation during urination. Frequent urination. Cloudy or strong-smelling urine. Lower abdominal pain or discomfort. Fever or chills (in severe cases) VOQPcw.