AAA Food Manager Certification Practice Test

Which of the following pathogens is known to cause viral gastroenteritis?

1. Salmonella Typhi

2. Hepatitis A

3. Clostridium perfringens

4. E. coli O157:H7

The correct answer is: Hepatitis A

The correct answer is Hepatitis A because it is a virus that is specifically associated with viral gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Hepatitis A is typically transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated food or water, particularly in environments with poor sanitation. In contrast, Salmonella Typhi is a type of bacteria that causes typhoid fever, a more severe systemic illness rather than typical viral gastroenteritis. Clostridium perfringens is also a bacterium, which is primarily linked to food poisoning due to improper food handling and serving. Meanwhile, E. coli O157:H7 is a pathogenic strain of E. coli associated with severe gastrointestinal illness, specifically hemorrhagic colitis, rather than viral gastroenteritis. These distinctions help clarify why Hepatitis A is pinpointed in this instance as the correct pathogen related to viral gastroenteritis.