Bacillus Erysipelatos Suum is a species of bacteria commonly known as Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae, which primarily affects pigs but can also infect other animals and humans. The bacteria are gram-positive, nonmotile, and rod-shaped.
Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae is capable of forming spores, making it resistant to adverse environmental conditions. This bacterium is anaerobic, meaning it can survive in environments with low oxygen concentrations. It is primarily found in soil, water, and decaying organic matter.
In pigs, Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae causes a disease known as swine erysipelas. It typically presents with skin lesions, fever, arthritis, and sudden death, but the severity of symptoms can vary. Swine erysipelas is usually transmitted through contact with infected animals or ingestion of contaminated feed or water.
In humans, Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae infections, also referred to as erysipeloid, usually occur after exposure to infected animal tissues or products, such as fish. Symptoms in humans include painful skin lesions, swelling, and redness at the site of entry. In severe cases, systemic infection can occur, leading to fever, chills, joint pain, and endocarditis.
The treatment of Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae infections in animals and humans typically involves antibiotics. Prevention strategies include proper hygiene, vaccination of animals, and using protective equipment when handling potentially infected materials.
In summary, Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae is a bacteria species, commonly found in soil and water, which can cause swine erysipelas in pigs and erysipeloid in humans.
