Bacillus cereus is a bacterium found in vegetation and human food. It produces toxins and can cause a wide range of illnesses. Although most infections are gastrointestinal, Bacillus cereus can also cause non-gastrointestinal infections.
If you or a loved one has a weak immune system, you may be at risk for B. cereus. These illnesses can be particularly dangerous for those who are immunocompromised. Fortunately, the chances of recovery are greatly increased with proper treatment.
Bacillus cereus is a gram-positive bacillus that can be transmitted by contact. In the early stages of infection, symptoms are usually mild and can be cured by antibiotics. However, as the infection progresses, the condition can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia and eardrum rupture.
Bacillus cereus can cause gastrointestinal diseases such as diarrhea, emetic syndrome, and endophthalmitis. Bacillus cereus can be contracted from contaminated food or water, and can also be a contaminant of hospital equipment. Non-gastrointestinal Bacillus cereus infections are rare. Symptoms can include fatigue, fever, aching limbs, and nausea. A Gram stain can be used to detect bacteria in the blood, and a stool sample can be collected to check for infection.
Bacillus cereus is commonly known for its effects on the intestinal tract. The spores from the bacteria can produce a toxin that causes vomiting and diarrhea. Other symptoms include abdominal pain, high fever, and rashes. Foodborne Bacillus cereus illness usually lasts 24 hours, although it can last longer. You can avoid this disease by following proper food handling practices.
Bacillus cereus infection can lead to severe complications. During the first days of infection, you may experience a variety of symptoms such as nausea, bloating, and cramping. Depending on the location of the infection, you can also have a dry cough or foul-smelling breath. You can also experience night sweats and fatigue. This illness requires a long course of antibiotics.
Inflammation of the throat is another common symptom. Your mouth may turn greenish or foul smelling, and you may also feel a strong, violent cough. When this happens, you can have a chest X-ray and a skin test to diagnose the condition.
Unlike most infectious illnesses, you can contract the bacterium via direct contact with a person, although you cannot get the infection by eating raw meat or seafood. In addition to causing gastrointestinal illnesses, Bacillus cereus can cause pneumonia and other serious bacterial infections. Some of the most serious symptoms of these illnesses are shortness of breath, chest pain, and loss of hearing.
Some of the most common Bacillus cereus symptoms include a fever, cough, sore throat, headache, and dizziness. Symptoms can begin as soon as a few minutes after ingestion of a contaminated food, and the infection can persist for up to 24 hours. If you suspect you have a Bacillus infection, consult a health care professional immediately.
Bacillus cereus is considered a relatively common cause of gastroenteritis worldwide. In the United States, 63,400 episodes of this infection occur annually. Many patients are treated with antibiotics, but a few are more seriously affected.
