Intestinal infections due to Yersinia enterocolitica

**Definition:** A disease of the intestinal tract, caused by an infection with the gram-negative bacteria Yersinia enterocolitica. This disease commonly presents with a fever, diarrhoea, or abdominal pain. This disease may also lead to a systemic infection. Transmission is by the faecal-oral route from the ingestion of contaminated food or water, or direct contact with infected individuals or animal. Confirmation is by identification of Yersinia enterocolitica in a faecal sample.