Question
A group of students attended a midnight buffet dinner on New year’s eve with a lavish spread on chicken sandwiches, salads and pastries. Early next morning they complained of nausea and 7-8 episodes of vomiting. Which of the following can be the causative organism?
| A. |
Bacillus cereus
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| B. |
Shigella
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| C. |
Vibrio cholera
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| D. |
Staphylococcus aureus
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Show Answer
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Correct Answer � D
Explanation
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|
Staphylococcus aureu It is caused by enterotoxin of staphylococcus aureus.
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It is a preformed toxin, hence the incubation period is short of about 1-6 hrs.
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symptoms are characterised by vomiting , nausea, hypotension and dehydration.
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The most important source of infection is a carrier of Staphylococcus aureus usually a food handler.
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Most common food items involved are bakery food, custards, milk products, and processed meats.
Other options explanation:-
A) Bacillus cereus- the common food sources are vegetables, cereals, meats. It is also seen after consumption of Chinese fried rice. Incubation period can be between 1-16 hrs.
B) Shigella- is associated with dysentery. It is characterised by diarrhea associated with blood and mucus. Incubation period is > 16 hrs.
C) Vibrio cholerae- is associated with consumption of shellfish and contaminated water. Symptoms of watery diarrhea are seen. The incubation period is usually > 16 hrs. It can be identified by darting motility of vibrio in hanging drop preparation.
