Health, Safety, and Nutrition for the Young Child 9th Edition by Lynn Marotz

Exercise 3

coli 0157:H7 is a deadly bacterium that is frequently in the news. It is commonly associated with outbreaks of contaminated and undercooked meats-especially ground beef. However, foods are not the only source of this infectious agent. A recent E. coli outbreak occurred at a popular water park when one of the children in attendance accidentally defecated in the wading pool. Six children were hospitalized and many more sickened with an E. coli 0157:H7 illness. It was later determined that chlorine levels had not been maintained at a level sufficient to destroy the bacteria. Additional E. coli outbreaks have been associated with hot tubs, swimming in lakes or rivers, and children's petting zoos. E. coli 0157:H7 infections have also been traced to beach sand (Heaney et al., 2012; Yamahara et al., 2012).
Think About This:
Are your program's sanitation procedures adequate to prevent illnesses such as E. coli from spreading through water play
Are your food preparation and service methods safe
What sanitation precautions should you observe when taking children on an outing to prevent this illness