Salmonella enterica serotypes — Which of the following serotypes commonly cause acute gastroenteritis in humans?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: All of these

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Nontyphoidal Salmonella (NTS) serotypes are major causes of foodborne gastroenteritis worldwide. Recognizing frequent serotypes helps in outbreak investigations and public health surveillance.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • We focus on gastroenteritis (diarrhea, cramps, fever) rather than typhoid fever.
  • Salmonella enteritidis, S. typhimurium, and S. newport are well-known NTS serotypes.
  • Transmission typically occurs via contaminated poultry, eggs, meat, produce, or cross-contamination.


Concept / Approach:
All listed serotypes are implicated in human gastroenteritis outbreaks. S. enteritidis is frequently associated with eggs and poultry; S. typhimurium is a common broad host-range serotype; S. newport causes sporadic illness and outbreaks linked to produce and animal products. Therefore, “All of these” is correct.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Identify the disease entity: acute gastroenteritis (nontyphoidal Salmonella).Match each listed serotype to documented human gastroenteritis cases.Conclude that all listed serotypes can cause gastroenteritis.


Verification / Alternative check:
Public health reports routinely cite these serotypes among the top causes of Salmonella gastroenteritis, supporting the answer.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Choosing a single serotype ignores the epidemiologic diversity of NTS infections.


Common Pitfalls:
Confusing typhoidal serovars (e.g., S. Typhi, S. Paratyphi) with NTS; the question explicitly concerns gastroenteritis.



Final Answer:
All of these

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