Bacterial causes of chronic diarrhea are rare and zoonotic. Which statement is correct?

• A. They are common and non-zoonotic
• B. They are rare and zoonotic
• C. They are common and zoonotic
• D. They are rare and non-zoonotic

Answer: (B)

Bacteria are not a common cause of chronic diarrhea; most chronic cases come from non-infectious or other infectious etiologies such as parasites. When bacteria do lead to prolonged symptoms, it’s more likely in people with weakened immune systems or with persistent infection, so such cases are relatively rare overall. At the same time, many bacterial enteropathogens have animal reservoirs and can be transmitted to humans, especially through handling animals, contaminated food, or water. That combination—uncommon as a cause, but with potential for zoonotic transmission—fits the statement that bacterial causes of chronic diarrhea are rare and zoonotic.