Household transmission of haemolytic uraemic syndrome associated with Escherichia coli O104:H4 in the Netherlands, May 2011

Following the outbreak of haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS) and haemorrhagic colitis in Germany, two patients returning from a stay in Germany developed HUS due to Escherichia coli O104:H4 in the Netherlands. The index case developed symptoms eight days, and her child 15 days after their return. It is very likely that transmission resulted from secondary spread from mother to child. Recommendations should be made to prevent secondary transmission within households. Euro Surveillance. 2011;16(25):pii=19897. Available online: http://www.eurosurveillance.org/ViewArticle.aspx?ArticleId=19897.