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[Neonatal infection with Salmonella apapa after contact with a reptile in the home]

R Haase1, T Beier, M Bernstädt

  • 1Universitätsklinik und Poliklinik für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg. roland.haase@medizin.uni-halle.de

Zeitschrift Fur Geburtshilfe Und Neonatologie
|May 5, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Salmonella apapa, a reptile-associated bacteria, can infect humans, even newborns. This case highlights the risk of Salmonella apapa infection in infants from contact with infected pets like bearded dragons.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Zoonotic Diseases
  • Infectious Diseases

Context:

  • Salmonella apapa is a rare bacterial pathogen primarily transmitted by reptiles.
  • Human infections are infrequently reported, but transmission via animal feces or direct contact is possible.
  • Infants are particularly vulnerable due to immature immune systems and close contact with household environments.

Purpose:

  • To report a case of Salmonella apapa sepsis in a neonate.
  • To identify the source of infection in the infant.
  • To raise awareness about the zoonotic potential of Salmonella apapa.

Summary:

  • An 18-day-old infant developed sepsis caused by Salmonella apapa.
  • The same bacterial strain was isolated from the feces of a family pet bearded dragon.
  • This finding confirms the reptile-to-human transmission route in this case.

Impact:

  • This case underscores the importance of hygiene practices when keeping reptiles as pets, especially in households with infants.
  • It highlights the need for increased awareness among healthcare providers regarding rare Salmonella serovars in neonates.
  • Further research may be warranted to understand the prevalence and pathogenicity of Salmonella apapa in both animal reservoirs and human populations.

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