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Updated: May 17, 2026
06:55
A High-throughput Platform for the Screening of Salmonella spp./Shigella spp.
Published on: November 7, 2018
[Salmonella gastroenteritis in children]
Cláudia Almeida1, Diana Moreira, Ângela Machado
1Serviço de Pediatria, Centro Hospitalar Tâmega e Sousa, Unidade Padre Américo, Penafiel, Portugal.
Acta Medica Portuguesa
|October 20, 2012
Summary
Salmonella gastroenteritis (GE) is common in Portuguese children, particularly in rural areas during warmer months. Salmonella enteritidis and Salmonella typhimurium were the most frequent serotypes identified, often linked to eggs and non-potable water.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Epidemiology
Context:
- Gastroenteritis (GE) caused by Salmonella is a significant childhood illness in Portugal.
- Approximately 456 cases are reported annually, with 82% affecting children under fifteen.
- A high admission rate for Salmonella GE was observed in a level two hospital setting.
Purpose:
- To conduct a clinical and laboratorial characterization of pediatric patients with Salmonella GE admitted to a hospital.
- To analyze epidemiological data, including serotypes, age distribution, seasonality, and potential sources of infection.
Summary:
- A retrospective study identified 218 cases of Salmonella GE (2.66%) among 8195 GE admissions between 2005 and 2009.
- Salmonella enteritidis (49.1%) and Salmonella typhimurium (29.8%) were the predominant serotypes.
- Infections peaked between May and October, with associations noted between S. enteritidis and summer, and S. typhimurium and spring. Eggs and non-potable water were implicated food items.
Impact:
- The study highlights the high prevalence of Salmonella GE in a rural pediatric population and its significant impact.
- Findings underscore the importance of age-specific serotype distribution and seasonal patterns in Salmonella infections.
- Understanding these factors can inform public health interventions and prevention strategies for childhood gastroenteritis.
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