Yersinia enterocolitica - Isolation, Pathogenicity, and Prevalence in Farms for Slaughtered Pigs

Abstract

Yersinia enterocolitica is a significant zoonotic pathogen that poses a considerable threat to both animal and human health. This review paper aims to summarize and critically evaluate current knowledge on the isolation, pathogenicity, and prevalence of Y. enterocolitica in farms dedicated to the production of slaughtered pigs. Isolation of Y. enterocolitica from various sources, including porcine tonsils, feces, and mesenteric lymph nodes, is essential for understanding prevalence and transmission dynamics. The different isolation methods and their advantages and limitations in detecting the pathogen are explored, highlighting the challenges associated with its detection. We examine the role of specific virulence factors, in the ability of Y. enterocolitica to colonize and cause disease in humans. Additionally, this review provides a compre¬hensive analysis of factors influencing the prevalence of Y. enterocolitica in farms for slaughtered pigs. The review highlights the need for standardized surveillance strategies to accurately assess the prevalence of Y. enterocolitica in swine populations, ensuring effective control and prevention measures. In conclusion, the findings presented here underscore the importance of Y. enterocolitica as an emergent pathogen as well as implementing comprehensive surveillance programs, adopting effective control measures, and promoting awareness among stakeholders to mitigate the risk associated with Y. enterocolitica infection in both ani¬mals and humans.