GRAM POSITIVE RODS. PART 2

Question 1

What type of bacterium is Bacillus cereus

Answer 1

aerobic spore-forming bacterium

Question 2

Where is Bacillus cereus commonly found?

Answer 2

commonly found in soil, on vegetables, and in many raw and processed foods

Question 3

What does Bacillus cereus cause

Answer 3

Bacillus cereus causes food poisoning

Question 4

What are the two types of gastrointestinal illness caused by Bacillus cereus toxins?

Answer 4

Emetic (vomiting) syndrome, which has a short incubation period (0.5-5 hours). Symptoms usually disappear within 6 to 24 hours.

Diarrheal syndrome, which has a longer incubation period (6-18 hours).

Question 5

Which type of food is frequently implicated in outbreaks of emetic illness caused by Bacillus cereus?

Answer 5

Rice dishes, especially Asian-style fried rice, are frequently associated with outbreaks of emetic-type illness.

Question 6

What type of food is more often associated with diarrheal illness caused by Bacillus cereus?

Answer 6

Meat dishes are more commonly associated with diarrheal-type illness.

Question 7

lab diagnosis

Answer 7

usually not done

Question 8

Treatment of bacillus cereus

Answer 8

1. Most people recover without treatment.
2. The administration of fluids is recommended if the diarrhea or
   vomiting is severe
3. Antibiotics are not indicated as the symptoms are caused by the
   toxins and not the bacteria

Question 9

prevention of bacillus cereus

Answer 9

Ensure food is maintained either at a temperature above 60°C or
refrigerated below 4°C.
* Cool cooked foods that will not be immediately consumed to below
4°C within 6 hours.
* When reheating food, ensure that the temperature reaches at least
74°C