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Foodborne infections caused by bacteria (Master thesis)

Κουσουτζή, Παρασκευή - Μαρίνα/ Kousoutzi, Paraskevi - Marina/ Τρόφιμα, διατροφή και μικροβίωμα

Foodborne bacterial infections constitute one of the most significant public health concerns worldwide, as they are responsible for millions of gastrointestinal infection cases, a considerable number of hospitalizations, and increased morbidity and mortality, particularly among vulnerable population groups. The present postgraduate thesis is a literature review focusing on the major foodborne bacterial pathogens, emphasizing their pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, prevention, and therapeutic management. This study analyzes the most important foodborne bacterial pathogens, including Salmonella spp., Campylobacter jejuni, pathogenic strains of Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Clostridium spp., and Bacillus cereus. Sources of contamination, virulence mechanisms, toxin production, clinical manifestations, potential complications, as well as modern diagnostic and therapeutic approaches are presented. Special emphasis is placed on the relationship between foodborne infections and the intestinal microbiota, since disruption of the normal gut microbial balance significantly affects immune response and overall host health. Furthermore, the role of nutrition, probiotics, and dysbiosis in maintaining intestinal homeostasis and restoring microbial balance following infection is discussed. In addition, factors affecting the severity of foodborne infections are examined, with particular reference to vulnerable population groups. The study also highlights the major food safety and prevention measures, the importance of epidemiological surveillance and public health policies, as well as the need for rational antibiotic use in order to limit antimicrobial resistance. In conclusion, the effective prevention and management of foodborne bacterial infections require the combination of proper food hygiene and safety practices, early diagnosis, appropriate therapeutic intervention, and continuous public awareness. Understanding the mechanisms of pathogenesis and the interaction between pathogenic microorganisms and the intestinal microbiota may significantly contribute to improving public health and developing more effective prevention and treatment strategies.