EHEC O104:H4 Related Antibody Products

**EHEC O104:H4** is a specific serotype of Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC), a pathogenic strain of E. coli known for causing severe foodborne illness. This strain gained global attention during a major outbreak in 2011, primarily in Germany, which resulted in numerous cases of illness and several fatalities.

EHEC O104:H4 is characterized by its ability to produce Shiga toxin, a potent toxin that can lead to severe complications such as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a condition that affects the blood and kidneys. Unlike many other EHEC strains, O104:H4 exhibits certain genetic traits more commonly associated with Enteroaggregative E. coli (EAEC), including antibiotic resistance and enhanced gut colonization factors, making it particularly virulent.

The outbreak highlighted the need for robust public health interventions, improved food safety practices, and enhanced diagnostic techniques to detect and manage infections caused by such strains. Ongoing research on EHEC O104:H4 focuses on understanding its pathogenic mechanisms, improving treatment options, and preventing future outbreaks.