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What is Cronobacter sp. ? What diseases can the bacteria cause?

Cronobacter sp. is a bacterium belonging to the family Enterobacteriaceae , which contains a number of bacterial species found in the human and animal gut and the environment. The microorganism has been implicated in outbreaks causing meningitis or enteritis, especially in infants.

In the few outbreaks reported 20% to >50% of the infants who contracted the disease died. For survivors, severe lasting complications can result including neurological disorders. The outcome related to adult disease seems to be significantly milder.