Isolation and identification of bacterial pathogens associated with foodborne illnesses in stool samples: A prospective study

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Introduction: Foodborne illnesses significantly impact public health, necessitating the isolation and identification of bacterial pathogens such as Salmonella, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus. This study aims to isolate and identify bacteria from stool samples of individuals exhibiting food poisoning symptoms, enhancing understanding and prevention of these infections. Methods: This prospective study, conducted at GSL Medical College from August to September 2021, involved individuals over 18 years with food poisoning symptoms. Stool samples were collected, cultured on selective media, and analyzed for bacterial identification using Gram staining and biochemical tests, followed by statistical analysis of prevalence and symptoms. Results: The study included 100 participants, with 52% male and a majority (40%) aged 31–45 years. Abdominal pain (80%) and diarrhea (75%) were the most common symptoms. The predominant isolates were E. coli (30%) and Salmonella spp. (25%), with symptom correlations revealing distinct clinical presentations among the pathogens. Conclusion: This study underscores the significant role of pathogens in foodborne illnesses, particularly E. coli and Salmonella spp. The correlation between these pathogens and symptoms highlights diverse clinical presentations, emphasizing the need for effective food safety measures and public health interventions to mitigate the impact of foodborne infections on community health.