مقالات پذیرفته شده در نهمین کنگره بین المللی زیست پزشکی
A Brief Review of Salmonellosis
A Brief Review of Salmonellosis
Sonia Sadeghi,1,*Ebadalah Sadeghi,2
1. Department of Biology, Faculty of Science , Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz , Iran 2. Science teacher at Samii School
Introduction: Salmonellosis is one of the most common foodborne infections affecting humans and animals,
caused by bacteria of the genus Salmonella. These pathogens are frequently found in animal-derived products such as poultry, beef, pork, and fish, but they can also contaminate non-animal foods like fruits and vegetables. Transmission typically follows a “farm-to-fork” continuum, encompassing contamination at farms, during food processing, and through improper food handling or storage. The global prevalence of salmonellosis poses a significant public health concern, as clinical manifestations can range from mild gastroenteritis to severe, life-threatening systemic infections.The rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Salmonella strains has further complicated treatment strategies. Overuse and misuse of antibiotics in both human medicine and livestock production have led to the emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains. This situation restricts the effectiveness of conventional antibiotic therapies and highlights the urgent need for novel intervention strategies.Recent research emphasizes understanding the pathogen’s virulence factors, transmission routes, and the development of innovative approaches such as vaccines, probiotics, and bacteriophage therapy. Comprehensive knowledge of Salmonella pathogenic mechanisms and resistance profiles is critical for designing effective preventive and therapeutic measures.
Methods: Keywords such as salmonella, salmonellosis, and MDR were used to search online scientific databases like Google Scholar and PubMed, leading to the selection and review of related articles
Results: Epidemiological studies reveal that Salmonella can spread to humans through multiple environmental and food-related pathways. The consumption of contaminated meat and animal products remains the most common source, but contamination of vegetables and fruits represents a growing concern. MDR strains resistant to commonly used antibiotics, including amoxicillin, tetracycline, and ciprofloxacin, have been reported in clinical isolates and food samples globally.Molecular investigations indicate that Salmonella pathogenicity is largely driven by genes responsible for adhesion, intracellular survival, and toxin production. These virulence factors enable the bacteria to invade host cells, evade immune responses, and persist in the gastrointestinal tract. Animal and cellular models have demonstrated that MDR strains often exhibit prolonged survival and increased disease severity, contributing to higher morbidity and public health burden.Diagnostic methods commonly include microbial culture of stool, blood, or other body fluids on selective media such as XLD orMacConkey agar, followed by biochemical and serological confirmation. Molecular techniques like PCR allow rapid and sensitive
detection of specific Salmonella genes. Serological tests are also employed to detect antibodies in systemic infections or epidemiological studies.Treatment strategies depend on the severity of the infection. Mild, self-limiting cases typically require only supportive care with fluid and electrolyte replacement. Severe or systemic infections necessitate antibiotics, selected based on sensitivity testing, with agents such as ciprofloxacin, amoxicillin, cefixime, or cefotaxime. Emerging therapies including live-attenuated vaccines, probiotics, and bacteriophage therapy show promise as complementary or preventive interventions.High-risk groups for salmonellosis include young children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic illnesses such as diabetes
or immunodeficiencies. Occupational exposure, such as working with livestock or in food processing, also increases risk.Additionally, consumption of contaminated food products, particularly undercooked meat, eggs, or unpasteurized dairy, contributes to higher susceptibility.
Conclusion: Salmonellosis remains a major public health challenge, particularly with the emergence of MDR strains. Effective management of this infection requires a combination of hygiene interventions, control across the food production chain, and the development of novel therapeutic approaches. Preventive measures, including public education on food safety, improved processing and cooking practices, and rational use of antibiotics, are essential to reduce infection risk.Future research should focus on elucidating the precise mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance and virulence to enable targeted interventions. The combined application of innovative strategies, including bacteriophage therapy and probiotics, offers potential to decrease Salmonella prevalence in food products and prevent transmission to humans. Continuous surveillance and interdisciplinary
collaboration are key to controlling the spread of salmonellosis and mitigating the impact of antimicrobial resistance on global health.