fecal-oral route

pathology

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Last updated

July 16, 2026

Quick Summary

The fecal-oral route is a primary pathway for transmitting infectious diseases. This occurs when pathogens from feces contaminate food or water, which are then ingested by another person. This route is a common cause of illnesses like viral gastroenteritis, often referred to as the stomach flu.12

Pathogens responsible for foodborne illnesses include bacteria like Salmonella and viruses such as norovirus. These can spread easily, especially in areas with poor sanitation or low vaccination rates, as infected individuals can shed viruses in their stool even without showing symptoms.31

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polio
Course of disease
…most often by the so-called fecal-oral route—that is, from fecal matter taken into the mouth through contaminated food or fingers. It can also enter by ingestion of droplets expelled from the throat of an infected person. New victims may become ill about 7 to 14 days after ingesting the virus.…
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…most often by the so-called fecal-oral route—that is, from fecal matter taken into the mouth through contaminated food or fingers. It can also enter by ingestion of droplets expelled from the throat of an infected person. New victims may become ill about 7 to 14 days after ingesting the virus.…
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rotavirus
Rotaviruses are typically transmitted when food is contaminated by feces from an infected person. Many outbreaks probably develop when infected food handlers contaminate foods that required no further cooking, such as salads, sandwiches, and fruits. The usual sanitary measures that prevent infection by bacteria or parasites, such as…
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Rotaviruses are typically transmitted when food is contaminated by feces from an infected person. Many outbreaks probably develop when infected food handlers contaminate foods that required no further cooking, such as salads, sandwiches, and fruits. The usual sanitary measures that prevent infection by bacteria or parasites, such as…
Read More