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Salmonella virchow infection in an infant transmitted by household dogs
Abstract:
A 4-month-old male infant manifested diarrhea and Salmonella Virchow was isolated from his stool. The pathogen was repeatedly isolated from the infant over one month despite three regimens of treatment with antibiotics, to which the isolate was sensitive. Three household dogs were kept in his home and S. Virchow was isolated from two of them. The infant was admitted to hospital and was treated with antibiotic, then the pathogen was finally eliminated. Antibiotic sensitivity pattern and PFGE pattern produced by restriction enzyme Xba I of the isolate from the infant was completely similar to those of the isolates from the dogs. The above findings indicated that the present S. Virchow infection in the infant was transmitted by the household dogs.
Insights
A Salmonella Virchow infection in an infant was traced back to household dogs. Despite antibiotic treatments, the pathogen persisted until the infant received hospital care, confirming canine transmission.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Zoonotic Diseases
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology
Background:
- Salmonella Virchow infections can cause persistent illness in infants.
- Household pets can be reservoirs for zoonotic pathogens.
- Infant Salmonella infections require prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Observation:
- A 4-month-old infant presented with persistent diarrhea and Salmonella Virchow infection.
- The infant's Salmonella Virchow isolate was resistant to multiple antibiotic treatments.
- Salmonella Virchow was also isolated from two of the three household dogs.
Findings:
- Genetic analysis (PFGE) showed identical Salmonella Virchow strains from the infant and dogs.
- The infant's infection was successfully treated with antibiotics after hospitalization.
- The findings strongly indicate transmission from household dogs to the infant.
Implications:
- Household pets, particularly dogs, can be a source of Salmonella Virchow infection in infants.
- Early identification of zoonotic sources is crucial for effective treatment and prevention.
- Public health awareness regarding pet hygiene and potential pathogen transmission is essential.