Aeromonas hydrophila

Introduction

Aeromonas hydrophila can cause diarrhea, kidney disease, wound infections, pneumonia, and urinary tract infections. 

Hosts

Humans and Animals; In animals, it especially infects, amphibians, fish, reptiles, and birds. 

Transmission / Exposure Route

It is transmitted through the fecal-oral route. It can also be transferred by contaminated water, food, or soil. Sometimes it may occur if reptiles or fish are ingested. 

Case Fatality Ratio

The case fatality rate of Aeromonas bacteremia ranges from 24% to 63%. 

Incubation Period

The incubation period for diarrhea caused by Aeromonas hydrophila is 1 to 2 days. Tissue infections’ incubation period is around 8 to 48 hours. 

Microbiology

Aeromonas hydrophila is a heterotrophic, Gram negative, rod shaped bacterium. It is usually from 0.3 to 1.0 micrometers in width, and 1 to 3 micrometers in length. They are also motile, due to flagellum.

Enviromental Survival

They are especially common in warm climates. It can also be found in fresh or brackish water. It can survive in aerobic and anaerobic environments.