Pathogenic bacteria Incidence in samples of fresh shrimp extracted from Bluefields Lagoon

Abstract

This study was based on a mixed approach, the incidence of pathogenic bacteria in the shrimp extracted from Bluefields Lagoon and consumed by the population was evaluated, which shows the possible risks to their health. Direct shrimp catches were made at three sampling points (Half Way Cay, Banco Rojo and Santa María). Later they were analyzed in the Aquatic Rresearch Center of BICU, the bacteria were isolated and purified in specific agar for Escherichia coli, Salmonella sp, Clostridium perfringens and Enterococcus faecalis bacteria. From samples obtained, the one that presented the greatest contamination was Santa María, with the presence of Escherichia coli, Clostridium perfringens and Enterococcus faecalis, in Half Way Cay E.coli was present; however, it was within the acceptable values ​​of a food that does not cause any risk for consumers, since it presented 49 CFU / g. The Banco Rojo sample presented E.coli in acceptable values, but had the presence of Salmonella sp, which indicates that it is a risk for consumers. It can be said that the shrimp presented different levels of contamination for which it is recommended to refrigerate the product at minus 4º C temperatures and prepare them so that they are well cooked, avoid that children and older adults consume the pre-cooked or raw shrimp, since they are the most vulnerable people to the toxins of these bacteria. All this information must be passed on to community and regional decision-makers for a timely intervention.