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Epidemic potentialENT · EntericsSTECEnteric outbreak pack
Shiga toxin (stx1 / stx2)
Shiga toxin-producing E. coli
Last reviewed 2026-08-13
Public health significance
Toxin type changes clinical risk and outbreak characterization. stx2 is not a footnote.
Specimen types
Stool, isolate
Method
Toxin gene NAA or antigen
CLIA / validation
High complexity. If reflexing from a multiplex, document the confirmation path.
Interpretation
Detected / Not detected per toxin. Report both.
Reflex / referral
Isolate recovery and submission. Serotyping / WGS per state protocol.
Quality control
stx1 and stx2 positives. A toxin-negative STEC control if you report serogroup independently.
Reportability
Nationally notifiable.
HL7 / ELR
Separate OBX for stx1 (33675-3 family) and stx2 (33676-1 family).
Sources
CDC STEC; FoodNet.