Salmonella
Salmonella is the leading foodborne pathogen in the United States, causing the most deaths and having the highest cost burden.
Salmonella are coliform bacteria of the family enterobacteriaceae, closely related to Escherichia coli, Shigella, Klebsiella, Enterobacter, and Citrobacter.
Of the six subspecies of Salmonella enterica, arizonae , diarizonae, houtenae,salamae , indica, and enterica, Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica is the most significant pathogen in humans; 50 of over 2,600 serovars of Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica are common causes of infections in humans, with 10 serovars most common. Serovar Enteritidis (Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica, serovar Enteritidis) is the most common serovar isolated in human clinical cases.
Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica, serovar Typhi is responsible for typhoid fever in humans (not to be confused with typhus).
Salmonella enterica is a normal enteric bacterium in reptiles & birds, including domestic fowl. Raw and undercooked chicken, duck, or turkey, and raw or undercooked eggs are responsible for ~70% of human cases. Handling of pet turtles, lizards, snakes, & pet birds & their droppings has been implicated in human infection.
