Risk factors

The majority of HUS cases are caused by infection with certain strains of E. coli bacteria. Exposure to E. coli can occur when you:

• Eat contaminated meat or produce
• Swim in pools or lakes contaminated with feces
• Have close contact with an infected person, such as within a family or at a child care center.

The risk of developing HUS is highest for:

• Children 5 years of age or younger
• Adults 65 years of age or older
• People who have a weakened immune system
• People with certain genetic changes that make them more susceptible to HUS