How to prevent E. coli

ATLANTA, Georgia (CNN) -- The Friday expansion of a June recall of almost 19 million pounds of beef has the deadly bacteria Escherichia coli, or E. coli, back in the news.

But is there a way to prevent E.coli-related illness? And what is it ?

E. coli live harmlessly in the intestines of healthy people and animals. In fact, we need E. coli to produce essential compounds like K- and B-complex vitamins.

MORE STORIES 18.6 million pounds of ground beef recalled    EXTRA INFORMATION Interactive: What is E. coli?

But certain strains of the bacteria make a powerful toxin that can cause severe bloody diarrhea and life-threatening complications such as kidney failure. It is particularly dangerous to young children and the elderly.

Diagnosing E. coli infection can be tricky. There is usually little or no fever, and diarrhea may or may not be bloody. Abdominal cramps are common. Because of the danger of potentially fatal kidney failure, very young children and infirm adults who exhibit these symptoms should be tested for E. coli infection.

Some outbreaks have been fatal. In 2000 contaminated drinking water in Ontario, Canada, sickened thousands and apparently led to at least seven deaths.

The best way to avoid E. coli infection is to wash fruits and vegetables and cook meats thoroughly before eating. Even the skins of watermelons and cantaloupes should be washed to eliminate potentially harmful bacteria.

Ground beef should be cooked to 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Sorry, rare beef lovers, but those red, warm centers can be dangerous. No more pink can mean no more bacteria.

People also need to be vigilant in hand washing, especially if a family member is sick.

At home, avoid spreading harmful bacteria by keeping raw meat separate from ready-to-eat foods. Wash hands, counters, cutting boards and utensils with hot, soapy water after they touch raw meat. And never put cooked hamburgers or ground beef on an unwashed plate that held raw patties. You should also wash your meat thermometer in between meat-temperature tests.