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Water-melon as a vehicle of transmission of shigellosis
Scandinavian Journal of Infectious Diseases
|January 1, 1987
Abstract:
An epidemic of Shigella sonnei infection is described in which the only common source of infection was the ingestion of water-melon. Bacteriological studies demonstrated that S. sonnei bacteria injected into water-melons could multiply to infective doses. Therefore water-melons should not be excluded as a possible source of S. sonnei infection.
Insights
Watermelons can transmit Shigella sonnei infections. Bacteriological studies confirm that Shigella sonnei bacteria multiply within watermelons, posing an infection risk. Therefore, watermelons should be considered a potential source of Shigella sonnei outbreaks.
Area of Science:
- Foodborne pathogens
- Microbial contamination
- Public health microbiology
Background:
- An outbreak of Shigella sonnei infection was investigated.
- The ingestion of watermelon was identified as the sole common source of infection among affected individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if watermelon can serve as a vehicle for Shigella sonnei transmission.
- To investigate the potential for bacterial multiplication within watermelon.
Main Methods:
- Epidemiological investigation to identify the common source of infection.
- Bacteriological studies involving the inoculation of Shigella sonnei into watermelon tissue.
- Incubation and analysis to assess bacterial viability and multiplication.
Main Results:
- Shigella sonnei bacteria were successfully introduced into watermelon.
- Significant multiplication of Shigella sonnei was observed within the watermelon.
- Watermelon was confirmed as a viable medium for pathogen proliferation.
Conclusions:
- Watermelon can support the growth of Shigella sonnei to infective levels.
- Watermelon should be recognized as a potential source of Shigella sonnei outbreaks.
- Food safety practices should address the risk of contamination and multiplication in produce like watermelon.