The Big 6 Food Pathogens

Front

This bacteria lives only in humans.

It can be present in a person's feces for weeks after symptoms have ended.

Back

Salmonella Typhi

Front

Chickens are a natural carrier of this bacteria.

To prevent this illness poultry and eggs should be properly cooked.

Back

Nontyphoidal Salmonella

Front

This bacteria is found in feces.

Flies transfer this bacteria from feces to food.

Back

Shigella spp.

Front

This bacteria is found in the intestines of cattle.

Meat can become contaminated during slaughter.

Once eaten, it produces toxins in the intestines.

Back

Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (also known as E. coli)

Front

Virus found in intestines of infected people & linked to ready-to-eat food infected by sick food handlers. It is also associated with eating shellfish from contaminated waters. An infected person may not show symptoms for weeks. One of the symptoms is jaundice.

Back

Hepatitis A

Front

Virus linked with ready-to-eat foods and contaminated water. It takes very few particles to make someone sick. The virus is in a person's feces for days after symptoms have ended. To prevent this virus, exclude sick food workers and purchase shellfish from reputable suppliers.

Back

Norovirus