What pathogenic bacteria may be present in stool?

Mar 05, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, stool may contain pathogenic bacteria such as Clostridium difficile, Salmonella, Shigella, Vibrio cholerae, and Staphylococcus aureus. When abnormal bacteria appear in the stool, they are usually accompanied by gastrointestinal discomfort symptoms in the body. It is recommended to maintain good personal hygiene habits in daily life, such as frequent handwashing, safe food preparation, and proper storage, which can help prevent infections caused by intestinal pathogens.

Under normal circumstances, feces may contain pathogenic bacteria such as Clostridium difficile, Salmonella, Shigella, Vibrio cholerae, and Staphylococcus aureus. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Clostridium difficile

Clostridium difficile usually exists in small amounts in the intestines of healthy individuals. However, when the normal intestinal flora is disrupted by antibiotics, Clostridium difficile may overgrow and cause severe diarrhea.

2. Salmonella

Although Salmonella infection may cause only mild symptoms in healthy adults, it can lead to severe illness in children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

3. Shigella

Shigella typically causes bacterial dysentery and is generally transmitted through contaminated food or water. It may lead to more severe consequences in individuals with compromised immunity.

4. Vibrio cholerae

Cholera is a highly contagious disease with a short incubation period and high mortality rate. Vibrio cholerae is primarily transmitted through contaminated water or food, causing severe diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration, and other symptoms in affected individuals.

5. Staphylococcus aureus

When the body's resistance is low or immunosuppressive drugs are used long-term, Staphylococcus aureus can become an intestinal pathogen, causing symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea.

It is recommended to maintain good personal hygiene habits in daily life, such as frequent handwashing, safe food preparation and storage, which can help prevent infections caused by intestinal pathogens.

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