E. coli in the Lungs: Understanding the Risks and How Infection Occurs

You cannot get E. coli in the lungs. E. coli is a type of bacteria that typically lives in the intestines of warm-blooded animals, including humans. It is usually harmless, but some strains can cause foodborne illness if ingested. E. coli cannot survive in the lungs because the environment is too dry and acidic for it to thrive.