Yersiniosis

What is Yersinia enterocolitica?

Yersinia enterocolitica can be found in meats, oysters, fish, and raw milk. The exact cause of the food contamination is unknown. However, poor sanitation practices by food handlers, including improper storage, can contribute to contamination. CDC estimates that about 17,000 cases occur annually in the USA. It is a far more common disease in Northern Europe, Scandinavia, and Japan.

The major "complication" is the performance of unnecessary appendectomies, since one of the main symptoms of infection is abdominal pain of the lower right quadrant.

More Information on Yersinia enterocolitica:

• Yersinia enterocolitica - U S Food & Drug Administration - Foodborne Pathogenic Microorganisms and Natural Toxins (Bad Bug Book) 
• Yersinia enterocolitica - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention