Latvia is facing a concerning outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) infections, with 12 cases reported since March 19, 2025, primarily affecting children between the ages of 3 and 6. The severity of the situation is highlighted by the fact that 11 of the 12 patients have required hospitalization, with one child developing hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a potentially life-threatening complication. These cases have been detected across multiple regions in Latvia, including Riga, Salaspils, Ādaži, Siguldas, and Dienvidkurzeme, indicating a widespread distribution. Health authorities are working diligently to identify the source of the outbreak, with initial findings suggesting that the cases may not be linked to a single point of origin.
The Outbreak Investigation Unfolds
The Center for Disease Prevention and Control (SPKC) and the Latvian Food and Veterinary Service (PVD) are spearheading the investigation into this concerning outbreak. According to the SPKC website, preliminary findings indicate the cases aren’t connected to a single source, making the investigation particularly challenging for health officials. Laboratory testing is currently underway to identify the specific E. coli serogroups responsible for the infections.
Health authorities are conducting thorough surveys with patients, parents, and preschool institutions to gather more information about potential exposure sources. This methodical approach aims to identify common factors among the cases that could point to the outbreak’s origin. Similar to California’s food safety initiatives, Latvian authorities are taking proactive measures to protect public health, especially children who appear to be most affected in this outbreak.
The comprehensive investigation requires coordination between multiple health agencies and stakeholders. With 10 children and 2 adults affected so far, understanding the transmission patterns becomes critical for containing the spread. Public health officials are particularly concerned about the high hospitalization rate, which indicates the severity of the infections.
Historical Context of STEC in Latvia
To put this outbreak in context, Latvia reported 37 STEC cases in 2023 and 42 in 2024, with 18 cases already reported in 2025. The country typically sees an average of 4-5 STEC cases monthly, making the current outbreak a significant statistical increase compared to historical data. This sudden spike has raised concerns among health authorities about potential changes in transmission patterns or virulence of the circulating strains.
The current outbreak represents a concerning deviation from the expected baseline, potentially indicating a new source of contamination or changed conditions that favor bacterial spread. Proper food safety practices have always been essential in Latvia, but this outbreak emphasizes their critical importance. The cluster of cases among preschool-aged children suggests possible common exposure points related to their daily activities or diets.
Historical data serves as an important benchmark for evaluating the current public health threat. By analyzing past trends, health authorities can better understand the seasonal variations and typical sources of STEC infections in Latvia, helping to focus the investigation on the most likely contamination sources.
Understanding E. coli Growth and Transmission
E. coli bacteria can thrive in temperatures ranging from 7°C to 50°C, with optimal growth occurring at 37°C—roughly normal human body temperature. Some STEC strains demonstrate remarkable resilience, capable of surviving in acidic foods with a pH as low as 4.4 and in foods with a minimum water activity of 0.95, making them particularly difficult to control in food production environments.
Among the various STEC serotypes, E. coli O157:H7 stands as the most significant for public health concerns due to its association with severe illness. The main reservoirs for these bacteria include cattle, sheep, goats, and deer, highlighting the importance of proper animal husbandry and meat processing practices. Food contamination often occurs during slaughter, processing, or through environmental contamination of produce.
The bacteria’s ability to survive in various environments explains why food regulation improvements are constantly implemented across different regions. Understanding these growth conditions helps public health officials develop targeted control strategies. Transmission typically occurs through the fecal-oral route, often via contaminated food or water, direct animal contact, or person-to-person spread.
Essential Prevention Strategies
Proper food handling and hygiene practices stand at the forefront of STEC prevention. The SPKC emphasizes thorough cooking of foods to temperatures of 70°C or higher to kill harmful bacteria. This is particularly important for ground meat products, where bacteria may be mixed throughout during processing.
Careful washing of fruits and vegetables is essential, especially for items consumed raw. The SPKC specifically advises avoiding raw or undercooked meat, raw milk, and raw milk products for vulnerable populations such as young children, pregnant women, and the elderly. For those interested in dairy products, learning proper storage techniques can help reduce risks associated with certain foods.
According to the SPKC, “Anyone with diarrhea or vomiting should not handle food, meat should be sufficiently cooked, washing vegetables, and avoiding cross contamination” are critical steps in preventing infection. Regular handwashing represents a simple yet effective measure, particularly before food preparation and after using the toilet. Separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meat and ready-to-eat foods help prevent cross-contamination in kitchen environments.
Parents and caregivers should be especially vigilant about hygiene practices in homes with young children, who may be more susceptible to infection and severe complications. Avoiding cross-contamination between raw meats and other foods is particularly important, as is thorough cleaning of food preparation surfaces. In light of recent food safety recalls, consumers should stay informed about potential contamination risks.
STEC in the European Context
Latvia’s current outbreak exists within a broader European context, where STEC was the third most commonly reported foodborne zoonotic disease in the EU/EEA in 2022. According to data from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), 8,565 confirmed STEC cases were reported in EU/EEA countries in 2022, with a notification rate of 2.5 cases per 100,000 population across Europe.
This European perspective helps contextualize Latvia’s situation within regional health patterns. The country’s current outbreak, while concerning locally, contributes to the overall understanding of STEC transmission patterns across Europe. Collaborative approaches to foodborne disease surveillance and prevention have become increasingly important as food supply chains extend across national boundaries.
The European food safety framework provides valuable resources and guidance for member states dealing with foodborne outbreaks. European health authorities continue to monitor STEC trends, with particular attention to emerging serotypes and antimicrobial resistance patterns. Latvia’s outbreak investigation will likely contribute valuable data to these broader European surveillance efforts, potentially helping to prevent future outbreaks throughout the region.
Looking Forward: Implications and Response
As the investigation continues, Latvian health authorities remain focused on identifying the source of contamination and preventing further spread. The high proportion of affected children raises particular concerns, as they represent a vulnerable population for severe complications from STEC infections. Parents are advised to seek medical attention promptly if their children develop symptoms such as bloody diarrhea, severe stomach cramps, or signs of dehydration.
Public health messaging emphasizes preventive measures while acknowledging the challenging nature of the current investigation. Health officials continue to analyze laboratory results and epidemiological data to identify potential common exposure sources. The outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining vigilant food safety practices in both institutional and home settings.
The situation highlights the ongoing challenges in preventing foodborne illnesses despite advances in food safety systems. Continued public health education, rigorous food safety standards, and rapid response to outbreaks remain essential components of an effective strategy against STEC and similar pathogens. As this outbreak in Latvia demonstrates, foodborne pathogens continue to pose significant public health challenges that require coordinated and comprehensive approaches.