An Outbreak of Diarrheal Illness Occurs in a Community After

An outbreak of diarrheal illness occurs in a community after a massive hurricane.  The affected patients experience voluminous, watery diarrhea that quickly leads to severe dehydration.  Stool examinations of these patients yield oxidase-positive, curved, highly motile, gram-negative rods.  Epidemiologic study reveals the source as a contaminated water supply.  Which of the following patient populations would be most susceptible to developing this illness?

A) Patients lacking a functional spleen
B) Patients taking proton pump inhibitors
C) Patients who recently took antibiotics
D) Patients with chronic liver disease
E) Patients with cystic fibrosis

Correct Answer:

Verified

Unlock this answer now
Get Access to more Verified Answers free of charge

Access For Free