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Developing epidemiological markers for Shigella sonnei: a proposed phage-typing scheme
Public Health Reviews
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Shigella sonnei, a common cause of shigellosis, can now be sub-typed using a novel phage-typing scheme. This method aids in tracking outbreaks and understanding the epidemiology of this bacterium.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Epidemiology
- Bacteriology
Background:
- Shigella sonnei isolates appear uniform via serological methods, limiting epidemiological investigations.
- A need exists for sub-typing Shigella sonnei to enhance outbreak analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a phage-typing scheme for subdividing Shigella sonnei isolates.
- To establish a tool for improved epidemiological studies of Shigella sonnei.
Main Methods:
- 129 Shigella sonnei strains were tested against 103 Enterobacteriaceae-active phages.
- Eight phages demonstrating optimal differentiation were selected for the typing scheme.
Main Results:
- A tentative phage-typing scheme identified twelve main phage types.
- Variations within phage type 1 suggest potential for further sub-classification, requiring additional analysis.
Conclusions:
- A provisional phage-typing scheme for Shigella sonnei has been established.
- This method offers a valuable approach for the epidemiological study of Shigella sonnei.
- Further validation with diverse local isolates is recommended to confirm the scheme's utility.