What is Staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB)?
– SEB is one of several harmful substances produced by the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus. This toxin is a common contributor to food poisoning in humans. The bacteria grow and produce toxins in unrefrigerated meats, dairy, and bakery products. Typically, food poisoning due to SEB occurs in clusters because of a common food source (in settings such as a church picnic, eating contaminated food). However, SEB has also been produced by some countries as a biological weapon. This toxin can disable people who are exposed to it for several weeks, but it is rarely deadly. 2. How is SEB spread? – People can be exposed to SEB by either eating or drinking it or by breathing it in. SEB cannot usually be spread from one person to another. In a biological attack, the toxin could be spread in food, water, or as an aerosol (vapor). 3. What are the symptoms and health effects of SEB exposure? – People who have ingested (swallowed) SEB typically experience symptoms common to food poisoning, including
