serotype typhimurium DT 104 (S.t. DT104)
by Agron Plevneshi
infections have become a major problem in the industrialized
world. The strain of Salmonella enterica serotype typhimurium
known as definitive phage type 104 (DT104) is usually resistant
to five common antibiotics (penta-resistant): ampicillin,
chloramphenicol, streptomycin, sulfonamides, and tetracycline.
Although the most well-known outbreaks of DT104 were reported
from the UK, other European countries such as Germany, France,
Austria and Denmark have subsequently reported outbreaks.
This pathogen is being seen with increasing frequency and
there is a growing concern regarding its emergence in the
US and Canada. Many isolates of S. t. DT104 have reduced susceptibility
to fluoroquinolones, which can result in treatment failures
when quinolones are used for treatment Salmonella typhimurium
DT104 is primarily found in cattle but it has spread to a
range of food animals, including pigs, sheep and poultry,
and also to some pets such as cats and dogs. Contaminated
meat products and unpasteurized milk are the main source of
food-borne infection. DT104 infections are associated with
a high morbidity and mortality especially in children and
in the elderly. Prevention methods consist of good hygienic
practices by farmers and animal handlers and reduced use of
antibiotics for prophylaxis and growth in food animals.