POTENTIAL SOURCES OF <i>AEROMONAS HYDROPHILA</i>

Abstract

ABSTRACT Aeromonas species are associated with marine and fresh water environments, including natural mineral springs, chlorinated and unchlorinated domestic supplies, and polluted water sheds. Most studies attribute water supplied as the principal source for A. hydrophila. Recently, Aeromonas has been recognized as a potential cause of food‐associated gastroenteritis outbreaks. Its actual involvement in large foodborne outbreaks is presently unknown. Aeromonas can be readily isolated from a variety of food sources such as seafoods, meats, dairy products, and poultry. Another potential source is asymptomatic and immuno‐compromised individuals, particularly, food‐handling workers.