Stomach virus and food poisoning
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Understanding Stomach Virus and Food Poisoning
Gastroenteritis: Causes and Symptoms
Gastroenteritis is a condition characterized by the irritation and inflammation of the stomach lining and intestines, leading to symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. This condition can be caused by various pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, toxins, and parasites 2. In the United States, viral gastroenteritis is most commonly caused by noroviruses 2. Despite common misconceptions, true food poisoning, which is specifically caused by ingesting contaminated food, is relatively rare 2.
Viral vs. Bacterial Gastroenteritis
Viral Gastroenteritis
Viral gastroenteritis, often referred to as the "stomach flu," is not related to influenza viruses. Instead, it is typically caused by noroviruses, which are highly contagious and can spread rapidly through contaminated food, water, or surfaces 2. In outbreaks of gastroenteritis where foodborne pathogens were not isolated, a significant portion of cases were suspected to be viral in origin, especially when the incubation period was longer than usual for bacterial infections 1.
Bacterial Food Poisoning
Bacterial food poisoning occurs when individuals consume food contaminated with pathogenic bacteria. Common bacteria responsible for food poisoning include Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria. These bacteria can produce toxins that cause symptoms similar to those of viral gastroenteritis, such as vomiting and diarrhea 2. However, in some outbreaks where foodborne pathogens were not detected, it was suggested that the cause might be viral rather than bacterial 1.
Investigating Gastroenteritis Outbreaks
In cases where the cause of gastroenteritis is not immediately clear, thorough investigation is essential. For instance, in outbreaks associated with shellfish, viruses were detected in 88% of fecal specimens, indicating a strong viral component 1. Conversely, in outbreaks linked to other foods, viruses were found in only 23% of specimens, suggesting that other factors might be at play 1. This highlights the importance of collecting comprehensive epidemiological data and specimens for virological study to accurately identify the cause of gastroenteritis outbreaks 1.
Conclusion
Gastroenteritis can be caused by a variety of pathogens, with viruses being a common culprit, especially in cases where foodborne bacteria are not isolated. Understanding the differences between viral and bacterial gastroenteritis is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Proper investigation and data collection are essential for identifying the true cause of gastroenteritis outbreaks and implementing effective public health measures.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Foodborne gastroenteritis of unknown aetiology: a virus infection?
Foodborne gastroenteritis outbreaks with longer incubation periods may be viral in origin, as viruses were detected in 88% of shellfish-associated outbreaks but only 23% of other food-associated outbreaks.
Gastroenteritis
Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining and intestines that causes vomiting and diarrhea, often caused by a virus, bacteria, toxins, or parasites.
Food Poisoning: causes, precautions, diagnosis and treatment: A brief review
Food poisoning is caused by consuming contaminated food, causing symptoms such as vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea, and can be life-threatening if precautions are not taken.
A POSSIBLE VIRUS ÆTIOLOGY IN OUTBREAKS OF FOOD-POISONING FROM COCKLES
Small round virus-like particles were detected in faecal specimens from food-poisoning outbreaks associated with cockles, suggesting a possible viral cause.
Highly CitedFood Poisoning with Special Reference to the Foods Concerned
Food poisoning is most often caused by salmonella and enterotoxin-producing strains of staphylococci, with other causes including metallic poisons, poisonous plants, and metallic containers.
FOOD POISONING: CAUSES, ITS EFFECTS AND CONTROL
Food poisoning is caused by bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and toxins, and can be prevented by consuming healthy food, fresh vegetables, fruits, purified water, and avoiding junk food.
TWO OUTBREAKS OF FOODBORNE GASTROENTERITIS CAUSED BY A SMALL ROUND STRUCTURED VIRUS: EVIDENCE OF PROLONGED INFECTIVITY IN A FOOD HANDLER
A chef may have been excreting SRSV for a long time, potentially causing two foodborne gastroenteritis outbreaks in over 275 people.
Case ReportHighly CitedFood-poisoning
Food-poisoning is an acute intestinal disturbance caused by unwholesome food or drink, often caused by harmful bacteria like Salmonella.
Outbreak of Staphylococcal food poisoning due to SEA-producing Staphylococcus aureus.
A foodborne enterotoxin outbreak linked to SEA-producing Staphylococcus aureus at a wedding in 2008 was identified, highlighting the need for improved food safety measures.
Observational Study