Shigella sonnei

Shigella sonnei is a species of Shigella, a genus of bacteria that is responsible for causing shigellosis, a type of foodborne illness. This species is named after the Danish bacteriologist Carl Olaf Sonne.

Characteristics

Shigella sonnei is a non-motile, Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium. It is a facultative anaerobe, meaning it can survive in both oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor environments. Unlike other species of Shigella, S. sonnei is not as virulent and its symptoms are generally milder.

Pathogenesis

Shigella sonnei causes disease by invading the epithelial cells of the colon, causing inflammation and damage to the intestinal lining. This results in the characteristic symptoms of shigellosis, which include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. The bacteria are transmitted via the fecal-oral route, often through contaminated food or water.

Epidemiology

Shigella sonnei is the most common species of Shigella in developed countries. It is often associated with poor sanitation and overcrowded living conditions. Outbreaks can occur in institutional settings, such as schools and nursing homes, and in settings where food is handled.

Treatment

Treatment for infection with Shigella sonnei typically involves rehydration and, in severe cases, antibiotics. However, resistance to common antibiotics is increasing, making treatment more challenging.

Prevention

Prevention of Shigella sonnei infection involves proper hand hygiene, safe food handling practices, and access to clean water. Vaccines are currently under development.

See also

• Shigella flexneri
• Shigella dysenteriae
• Shigella boydii