Serotypes and analysis of distribution of Shiga toxin-producing<i>Escherichia coli</i>from cattle and sheep in the lower North Island, New Zealand

Abstract

If nationally representative, this study confirms that cattle and sheep in New Zealand may be a major reservoir of STEC serotypes that have been recognised as causative agents of diarrhoeal disease in humans. Distribution of STEC and EPEC in cattle and sheep indicates that direct contact with, in particular, calves or their faeces, or exposure to environments cross contaminated with ruminant faeces, may represent an increased risk factor for human disease in New Zealand.