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Foodborne Illness > Yersiniosis
Yersiniosis
What is it?
Yersiniosis is an infection caused by a bacteria
called Yersinia. It is associated with the stool (bowel movements) of
infected people and animals that contaminates water supplies,
soiled raw vegetables, and undercooked foods. It does not come
from the mouth of an infected person.
Symptoms
Symptoms start 3 to 7 days
after exposure and include:
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Watery diarrhea
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Abdominal pain on the lower right side mimicing
appendicitis
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Fever
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A variety of other symptoms, such as nausea or vomiting.
Sometimes people have no symptoms, yet carry the bacteria in
their stool. People who have not taken an antibiotic treatment
may have the bacteria in their stool for 2 to 3 months, even
if they have no symptoms.
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Transmission
Yersiniosis can be spread by way of:
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Soiled diapers of an infected child to the hands of
a caregiver.
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Unwashed hands of infected food handlers after using the
restroom.
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Food or water directly contaminated by the feces or urine
of infected animals or pets that may or may not appear sick.
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Cross-contamination from soiled vegetables or from raw
meats onto ready-to-eat foods or food contact surfaces like
cutting boards.
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Blood transfusions.
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Undercooked meats or leftovers not reheated to 165°F.
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Diagnosis
The bacteria can be identified from a stool
sample.
Treatment
Antibiotics can be prescribed as a
treatment.
Prevention
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Wash hands well after going to
the bathroom, after changing diapers, after animal contact,
and before and after preparing food.
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Dispose of human, dog,
and cat feces properly.
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Protect water supplies from human and
animal waste. Drink and use only pasteurized milk.
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Cook food
thoroughly.
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Discard soiled diapers properly and thoroughly
wash any contaminated surfaces.
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Persons with food handling, child care, or patient care
responsibilities should not handle food until the symptoms are
gone.
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