Which of the following statements about salmonellosis is correct?

• A. Salmonellosis is primarily caused by Salmonella enterica and is commonly transmitted through contaminated food or water.
• B. Salmonellosis does not cause gastrointestinal symptoms in humans.
• C. Salmonellosis is a viral infection that affects the respiratory tract.
• D. Salmonellosis is exclusively transmitted by direct contact with infected animals.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand what salmonellosis is. It is an infection caused by bacteria of the genus Salmonella, primarily Salmonella enterica.
2. Step 2: Recognize the common modes of transmission. Salmonellosis is typically transmitted through ingestion of contaminated food or water, not exclusively by direct contact with animals.
3. Step 3: Identify the symptoms caused by salmonellosis. It usually causes gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps.
4. Step 4: Differentiate salmonellosis from viral infections. Salmonellosis is bacterial, not viral, and it does not primarily affect the respiratory tract.
5. Step 5: Evaluate each statement based on these facts to determine which one correctly describes salmonellosis.