Serratia Marcescens

• Serratia marcescens is a Gram negative bacillus shaped bacteria that belongs to the family Enterobacteriaceae.
• Named after Italian physicist Serratia who invented the steamboat, and named marcescens means decaying.
• Appears in reddish pinks color which aids in identification
• Serratia marcescens is ubiquitous. It is commonly found in soil, water, plants and animals. It is widely present in non potable water in underdeveloped countries due to poor chlorination.
• Although S. marcescens is a pathogenic microorganism, it is also can be found with immunocompromised individuals such as those found in hospitals where many of the documented infections take place. The mode of transmission of this microorganism is by either direct contact,or by catheters, droplets, saline irrigation solutions, and other solutions that are believed to be sterile.