Foodborne Pathogens in Leafy Vegetables Grown and Consumed Locally in Yaounde, Cameroon: A Public Health Concern

This study sought to understand the health risks of foodborne pathogens in fresh leafy vegetables that are grown and consumed locally Yaounde, Cameroon. Through a survey, 200 respondents were recruited relate possible food-related illnesses vegetable consumption. Additionally, total 168 samples consisting six 15 irrigated water from five sources collected farms local markets for microbiological analysis. Using high-fidelity DNA polymerase, potential bacterial pathogens, namely, Shiga-toxin producing Escherichia coli (STEC), Campylobacter spp., Salmonella Listeria monocytogenes Yersinia enterocolitica also examined. The mean counts viable count coliforms followed decreasing trends obtained on markets, these ranged 4.98-8.74 log cfu/g 1.77-7.42 respectively. All detected significant concern public showing high occurrence some vegetables: STEC (20%) enterolitica (13%) cabbage, spp. (21%) lettuce, (15%) African nightshade, amaranth. Importantly, 42% highlighted they frequently got sick eating area. These qualitative results along with certain farming vending practices (such as use untreated sewage crop irrigation, sales physically dirty, muddy, unpackaged vegetables) indicated diseases could be occurring among vegetable-consuming populations