Fatal Meningitis from Shiga Toxin–Producing Escherichia coli in 2 Full-Term Neonates, France

Abstract

We report fatal meningitis in 2 neonates in France caused by Shiga toxin 1–producing Escherichia coli. Virulence factors capsular K1 antigen and salmochelin were present in both strains, potentially representing a new hybrid pathotype. Clinicians should remain aware of emerging pathotypes and design therapeutic strategies for neonatal E. coli infections.

Keywords

• Shiga toxin–producing Escherichia coli
• Shiga toxin
• Escherichia coli
• neonate
• newborn
• bacteria