Outbreaks of Listeria monocytogenes and other food-borne pathogens can be difficult to identify because the contaminated food source can be distributed so widely that cases of disease from the same strain can be distributed throughout the country. Which of the following techniques is the most useful in determining if two cases of Listeria monocytogenes infection have been caused by the same strain? Consider the cost and amount of time required to complete each technique.

Question

Outbreaks of Listeria monocytogenes and other food-borne pathogens can be difficult to identify because the contaminated food source can be distributed so widely that cases of disease from the same strain can be distributed throughout the country. Which of the following techniques is the most useful in determining if two cases of Listeria monocytogenes infection have been caused by the same strain? Consider the cost and amount of time required to complete each technique.
Multiple Choice
Fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH)
Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE)
Real-time PCR
Whole genome sequencing (WGS)

GPT 3.5 · Answer

Whole genome sequencing (WGS) is the most useful technique in determining if two cases of Listeria monocytogenes infection have been caused by the same strain. WGS provides the highest resolution and accuracy in identifying genetic similarities and differences between strains. While it may be more costly and time-consuming than some other techniques, the level of detail and specificity it provides makes it the most reliable method for outbreak investigations.