Prevalence of enteric pathogens among community based asymptomatic individuals

Abstract

Background and Aims: The objective of this study was to describe the prevalence of pathogenic microorganisms in asymptomatic individuals in a community study in Melbourne, Australia. Methods: The study population was a subset of 2803 individuals participating in the Water Quality Study; a community based randomized trial. Faecal specimens (1091) were collected over a 3-month period from asymptomatic individuals. Specimens were tested for a range of bacteria including Salmonella, Shigella and Campylobacter species. Rotavirus and adenovirus were detected using a Rota-Adeno latex kit, and protozoa were detected using a permanent stain (modified iron-haemotoxylin). Results: Twenty-eight known pa..