Bacterial and protozoal gastroenteritis

Article Abstract:

Gastroenteritis causes inflammation of the mucous membranes that line the intestines and stomach. It can be caused by a variety of bacterial and protozoal microorganisms. Severe diarrhea is often a result of these infections and rehydration therapy is usually required. Quickly identifying the cause of severe infection and providing the appropriate treatment can limit the illness and reduce medical costs associated with diagnosis and treatment. Gastrointestinal disease resulting in severe diarrhea is the second leading cause of death worldwide, and the leading cause of death in children. Underdeveloped nations and areas of poverty have much higher rates of both infection and death related to this illness. It is estimated that 10,000 deaths per year and 1.5 to 1.9 illnesses per person per year occur in the United States due to gastroenteritis. Many infections occur in institutional settings, where poor hygiene can lead to easy transmission of microorganisms. In foreign countries, travelers are highly susceptible to these infections, especially if they ingest contaminated food or water. Foodborne and waterborne outbreaks also occur in this country, where the risks for infection are increasing as eating raw meat and fish are becoming more popular. Eggs, raw milk, and untreated well water are also potential sources of infection. Fifty to 98 percent of AIDS patients suffer severe diarrhea during the course of their illness, due, in part, to the inability of the immune system to mount an attack against these microorganisms. Most of the organisms must be present in high concentrations to cause disease in people with normal immune functioning. This explains why proper hygiene is the best protection against infection. Diagnostic tests may be very costly, but they need not be performed, except in high-risk situations, such as cases involving severe or prolonged illness, immunodeficiency, or recent travel. Treatment generally begins with replacing lost water and electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium. Antimicrobial therapy may be required for certain cases. An understanding of the causes of, treatments for, and preventive measures for bacterial and protozoal gastroenteritis is imperative. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Reports, Development and progression, Diarrhea, editorial, Communicable diseases in children, Pediatric communicable diseases

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An outbreak of febrile gastroenteritis associated with corn contaminated by Listeria monocytogenes

Article Abstract:

Researchers describe an outbreak of Listeria food poisoning in two elementary schools in northern Italy in May, 1997. Over 1,500 children became ill and 292 were hospitalized. Of 141 stool specimens collected, 123 tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes. This bacterium usually does not affect healthy people. The bacterium was found in a cold corn and tuna salad that was delivered the the school cafeterias by the same caterer. Specimens collected at the catering facility also tested positive for the bacterium.

Italy, Cooking, Diseases, Corn, Food poisoning, Contamination, Cookery (Corn), Listeriosis, Elementary school students

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Notes of a surgeon: on washing hands

Article Abstract:

The most important thing to do for a doctor or a nurse is to wash the hands with soap after checking each patient to avoid the transfer of infection for one patient to the other. At times it is not always possible for them to wash hands after checking every patient, then at such times they should use disposable clinical gloves.

England, Fabricated rubber products, not elsewhere classified, Rubber Gloves, All Other Rubber Product Manufacturing, Usage, Gloves (Surgery), Hand washing, Handwashing

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