Germany detects first human-to-human E. coli transmission

FBR:  Germany has detected the first case of human-to-human transmission of the deadly E. coli bacteria strain. According to the country's health officials, a female kitchen worker of a catering company near Frankfurt was infected with the strain after eating sprouts. She later transmitted the bacteria to 20 people through food she prepared for them.

German officials claimed they have an evidence which shows that a human passed on the bacteria to the vegetables, which subsequently spread to other humans.

The bacteria has also been found in a river in the Frankfurt region. Officials said there was no need to worry as it did not pose any threat to the area's drinking water supply. However, they cautioned people to refrain from using the river water to wash fruit and vegetables.

The E. Coli outbreak, which began in May, has so far claimed 40 lives.