Spread of Hybrid El Tor Strains of Vibrio cholerae O1
Author Information
Author(s): Safa Ashrafus, Sultana Jinath, Cam Phung Dac, Mwansa James C., Kong Richard Y.C.
Primary Institution: City University of Hong Kong
Hypothesis
How far have hybrid El Tor strains of Vibrio cholerae O1 spread in Asia and Africa?
Conclusion
Hybrid El Tor strains that carry the classical cholera toxin gene have spread beyond the US Gulf Coast, Bangladesh, and Mozambique to several other countries in Asia and Africa.
Supporting Evidence
- The study examined 41 clinical strains of Vibrio cholerae O1.
- All strains were confirmed as El Tor biotype but most harbored the classical cholera toxin gene.
- Hybrid El Tor strains have been associated with sporadic outbreaks in the United States.
Takeaway
Scientists found that a type of bacteria causing cholera has spread to new places and can carry a gene that makes it more dangerous.
Methodology
Examined 41 clinical V. cholerae strains from Asia and Africa isolated from 1991 through 2004, confirmed as serogroup O1 by PCR, and biotyping was performed.
Limitations
The study is limited to strains isolated from specific regions and time periods.
Participant Demographics
Clinical strains from Asia and Africa, including Japan, Hong Kong, Zambia, China, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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