Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: All of these
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Enteric (typhoid) fever is mainly caused by human-adapted Salmonella enterica serovars, which differ in host range and disease manifestations from broad host-range serovars that cause gastroenteritis.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Human-restricted serovars have evolved specific virulence traits (e.g., Vi antigen in S. Typhi) and epidemiology centered on human-to-human transmission via contaminated food and water. Recognizing these serovars guides clinical suspicion and public health interventions (vaccination, sanitation).
Step-by-Step Solution:
List the human-adapted serovars: Typhi, Paratyphi A, Paratyphi B.Confirm that each is primarily a human pathogen.Select the inclusive option.
Verification / Alternative check:
Standard medical microbiology texts consistently categorize Typhi and Paratyphi A/B as human-adapted; outbreaks center on human carriers and fecal–oral transmission.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Common Pitfalls:
Confusing non-typhoidal Salmonella gastroenteritis with enteric fever; they differ in pathogenesis and host range.
Final Answer:
All of these.
Discussion & Comments