What is Cronobacter sakazakii?
In the realm of food safety, the presence of pathogens can pose significant risks, particularly when it comes to vulnerable populations such as infants. One such pathogen that has garnered attention in recent years is Cronobacter sakazakii, a bacterium responsible for several recalls in the last few years in the United States and Canada. Let’s explore what Cronobacter sakazakii is, how it can impact food safety, and what measures can be taken to mitigate its risks.
Cronobacter sakazakii, formerly known as Enterobacter sakazakii, is a Gram-negative bacterium that is commonly found in the environment. While it is relatively rare, Cronobacter sakazakii can cause severe illness, particularly in newborns and infants, people 65 and older, and those with compromised immune systems.
How is Cronobacter sakazakii transmitted?
One of the primary concerns with Cronobacter sakazakii is its ability to contaminate powdered infant formula. The bacterium can survive in dry environments and may multiply when reconstituted formula is prepared with contaminated water or under improper storage conditions. Infections in infants are often linked to consumption of contaminated formula, highlighting the importance of strict adherence to hygiene and sanitation practices in infant feeding. Cronobacter sakazakii can also be found in dehydrated protein shakes, powdered milk, herbal tea, rice, and potatoes.
What are the symptoms of Cronobacter sakazakii and what illnesses can it cause?
Symptoms of Cronobacter sakazakii infection in infants may include fever, poor feeding, irritability, lethargy and seizures. In adults, symptoms range from diarrhea to urinary tract infections or exacerbate wounds, scrapes, and cuts.
Symptoms may begin to present in as few as 6 to 8 hours after infection.
Cronobacter sakazakii can lead to several dangerous illnesses, including necrotizing enterocolitis and meningitis in newborns and respiratory infections and sepsis in babies, children, and adults.
How is Cronobacter sakazakii treated?
Prompt medical attention is crucial if infection is suspected, as early diagnosis and treatment can improve outcomes and reduce the risk of complications. Healthcare providers should consider Cronobacter sakazakii as a potential cause of illness in infants presenting with symptoms consistent with infection.
Babies diagnosed with sepsis or meningitis will be hospitalized immediately and given a course of antibiotics to battle the infection. Adults with Cronobacter sakazakii infected wounds may also receive treatment, however those with no symptoms may not require antibiotics.
How can the risk of Cronobacter sakazakii be minimized in newborns and infants?
Preventing Cronobacter sakazakii infection requires a multifaceted approach. Here are some key measures to reduce the risk of contamination and infection:
- Use Safe Preparation Practices – Follow recommended guidelines for preparing powdered infant formula, including using water that has been boiled and cooled to the appropriate temperature. Avoid using untreated water or well water for reconstituting formula.
- Practice Good Hygiene – Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before preparing formula or feeding infants. Ensure that feeding equipment, such as bottles and nipples, are cleaned and sanitized properly after each use.
- Store Formula Safely – Store powdered infant formula in a cool, dry place away from moisture and humidity. Use opened containers within the recommended time frame to minimize the risk of contamination.
- Monitor for Signs of Contamination – Inspect powdered infant formula for any signs of discoloration, unusual odors, or clumping, which may indicate potential contamination. Discard any formula that appears abnormal or has exceeded its expiration date.
According to national food poisoning lawyer Ron Simon, Cronobacter sakazakii infections are relatively rare, but the consequences can be severe, particularly for vulnerable populations such as infants. By understanding the risks associated with this pathogen and implementing appropriate preventive measures, consumers can help ensure the safety of infant formula and protect the health and well-being of infants everywhere.
Seek medical attention
If you have a fever over 102 degrees, bloody stool, or other severe symptoms you should seek medical attention immediately.
Legal Assistance?
According to national food poisoning lawyer Ron Simon, when you are a victim of food poisoning caused by someone else’s negligence, or simply their contaminated food, you may be entitled to financial compensation through a food poisoning claim or lawsuit.
