Yersinia enterocolitica isolates from humans in California, 1968-1975

Abstract

The serological and biochemical characteristics of 24 human isolates of Y. enterocolitica submitted to the California Department of Health [USA] from 1968-1975 are reported. Nine different serotypes were represented. Most strains were serotype O:8 (6) and serotype O:5 (5). Sources of the isolates included feces (12 cases), blood (3), sputum or throat (3), bile or bowel drainage (2), wounds (2), breast abscess (1) and skin abscess (1). Clinical histories indicated a number of different syndrome. Underlying medical conditions existed in 13 cases. Results of selected biochemical tests and antimicrobial susceptibility tests on the strains indicated grouping compatible with the O serotypes of the organisms.