Yersinosis


Yersiniosis is an acute infection of the intestinal tract caused by either of two bacteria, Yersinia enterocolitica or Yersinia pseudotuberculosis. Children may have bloody diarrhea and adults may experience joint pain.

Who gets yersiniosis?
Anyone can get yersiniosis, however, most cases caused by Yersinia enterocolitis occur in infants and young children, while Yersinia pseudotuberculosis mostly affects persons aged 5 to 20 years.

How is yersiniosis spread?
Yersiniosis is spread by contaminated food or water, or from infected people or animals. Raw pork and pork products are often contaminated.

Where are the Yersinia germs found?
Animals are the main source of Yersinia. Wastes from animals may contaminate water, milk, and foods and become a source of infection for people or other animals. The germ has been found in cold cuts, pork chitterlings, raw milk, ice cream, improperly pasteurized chocolate milk, tofu, shellfish, lakes and streams and wild and domestic animals.

What are the symptoms of yersiniosis?
People infected with Yersinia bacteria may have diarrhea, with fever and abdominal discomfort. Symptoms may mimic appendicitis.

How soon after infection do symptoms appear?
Symptoms usually appear within 3 to 7 days after exposure.

How is yersiniosis diagnosed?
Yersiniosis is diagnosed by identifying the Yersinia bacteria in the stool (feces).

How is yersiniosis treated?
Yersiniosis may be treated with antibiotics, such as trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Yersinia is generally resistant to penicillin.

Should an infected person be excluded from work or school?
Since Yersinia bacteria are in the stool (feces), only people with active diarrhea who are unable to control their bowel habits (e.g., infants, young children, certain handicapped individuals) should be isolated. Most infected people may return to work or school when their stools become formed as long as they carefully wash their hands after using the toilet. Food handlers, health care workers, and children in day care must obtain the approval of the Health Department before returning to their routine activities. This requires follow-up stool testing to be sure that they are no longer infectious.

How can yersiniosis be prevented?


Always treat raw poultry, beef, and pork as if they are potentially contaminated; handle these food items accordingly:

Wrap fresh meat in plastic bags at the market to prevent blood from dripping on other foods.

Refrigerate foods promptly; minimize holding at room temperature.

Cutting boards and counters used for preparation should be washed immediately after use to prevent cross contamination with other foods.

Avoid eating raw or undercooked meats.

Ensure that the correct internal cooking temperature is reached, particularly when using a microwave.

Encourage careful hand washing before and after food preparation, and after using the toilet or changing diapers.

Avoid using raw milk.

Make sure children, particularly those who handle pets, wash their hands carefully after handling the pets.

** Note **

Please remember that the information presented in this forum is for your education only, and is not intended to extend medical advice or diagnosis. If you have questions or feel that you may be experiencing symptoms similar to those presented, please call the Berkeley County Health Department at (304) 263-5131 or your primary care provider for formal medical attention.