YERSINIOSIS

SYMPTOMS

The symptoms of yersiniosis differ based on the age of the infected individual.

Common symptoms in young children include:

• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Fever

Symptoms in adults may include:

• Pain on the abdomen’s right side that may be confused for appendicitis
• Fever

Symptoms usually appear 4 to 7 days following exposure and may persist for up to 3 weeks. Joint pains, skin rashes, and the transmission of bacteria to the bloodstream are all possible complications.

Remember that you are infectious while having diarrhea and for up to three months afterward. This implies that you may infect others if they touch your feces. Wash your hands thoroughly to prevent spreading the virus and getting others sick.

DIAGNOSIS

Yersiniosis is often diagnosed by identifying the organism in an infected individual’s stool. Because many labs do not regularly test for Yersinia, it is crucial to contact laboratory employees for specific tests to be performed when yersiniosis is suspected. Other places where the organism may be retrieved include the joint fluid, lymph nodes, throat, blood, bile, and urine.

TREATMENT

Without antibiotic treatment, yersiniosis usually resolves on its own. Antibiotics, on the other hand, may be used to address more severe or complex infections.

Furthermore, yersiniosis usually improves without the need for medical therapy. Your body eliminates the microorganisms that cause you to get ill. However, it might take many weeks for symptoms to disappear while you heal. To lower your risk of dehydration, drink lots of fluids. If the infection is severe, you may need prescription medications to kill the bacteria.