Salmonella Species Overview

Set of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts related to Salmonella species, taxonomy, pathogenicity, and outbreaks.

Salmonella

A genus of bacteria in the family Enterobacteriaceae, known to cause infections in humans and animals.

G-

Gram-negative bacteria, characterized by a thin layer of peptidoglycan and an outer membrane.

Enterobacteriaceae

A family of bacteria which includes Salmonella, commonly found in the intestines of animals and humans.

Gastroenteritis

An inflammation of the stomach and intestines, usually caused by viral or bacterial infections, including Salmonella.

Enteric fever

A serious illness caused by Salmonella Typhi, leading to prolonged fever, abdominal pain, and systemic infection.

Serovar

A distinct variation within a species of bacteria or virus; used to classify different strains of Salmonella.

Pathogenesis

The process by which an organism causes disease, involving steps such as exposure, adhesion, and invasion.

Infectious dose

The minimum number of microbial cells required to establish infection, often quantified in colony-forming units (CFU).

Phage conversion

A phenomenon where bacterial viruses (phages) alter the properties of the bacteria they infect, including antigen expression.

Antigenic Structure

The specific configuration of antigens on a pathogen, which are recognized by the immune system.

Prolonged exposure of mesophilic strains

A condition where certain bacteria can survive prolonged exposure to heat, illustrating their resilience.

Regulatory status

The guidelines and regulations governing the safety and handling of Salmonella in food production.

O Antigens

Structural components of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, used for serotyping.

H Antigens

Flagellar antigens present on bacteria, which facilitate movement and are a key component in serotyping.

Epidemiological data

Information collected for statistical analysis of health-related phenomena, crucial for tracking outbreaks.