122 people across the province have been diagnosed with E. coli infections in the last month and Alberta health officials say the source of the contamination has not yet been found.

Since July 15, 59 cases have been confirmed in Calgary, 48 in Edmonton, seven in the southern zone, six in the north zone and two in the central zone.

E. coli bacteria normally live in the intestines of people and animals and are usually harmless, however, some are pathogenic, meaning they can cause illness.

AHS says the type of E.coli in these cases is 0157:h7, which is the most common form of the bacteria according to the Centre for Disease Control, and can cause severe illness including cramping, bloody diarrhea and kidney failure.

At the beginning of August, AHS reported an increase in illness from the bacteria and some people were admitted to hospital in Edmonton with infections that were reportedly linked to contaminated bean sprouts.

E. coli infections happen when you drink water or eat food that has been contaminated by feces.

The health agency says it has not found the source and it is also not clear if any of the 122 cases are linked.

Tips to prevent the spread of E. coli:

  • Cook beef to at least 71 °C (160 °F)
  • Thoroughly wash vegetables and fruits before eating
  • In the kitchen, wash your hands with hot, soapy water often, especially after you touch raw meat
  • Wash any tools or kitchen surfaces that have touched raw meat
  • Use only pasteurized milk, dairy, and juice products
  • Use only treated, or chlorinated, drinking water
  • When you travel to countries that may have unsafe drinking water, don't use ice or drink tap water. Avoid raw fruits and vegetables, except those with skin that you peel yourself
  • Wash your hands often, and always wash them after you use the bathroom or change diapers.

Anyone with diarrheal illness, especially bloody diarrhea, should consider seeking medical attention. For 24/7 health advice call Health Link Alberta toll-free at 1-866-408-5465 (LINK).

For more information, visit the AHS and CDC websites.

(With files from The Canadian Press)