Hafnia, a genus of bacteria typically found in the intestinal tract, is part of the normal gut flora. While generally harmless, its presence in stool can sometimes indicate digestive disturbances or an imbalance in gut microbiota....
Individuals with gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, or bloating may benefit from Hafnia testing. It’s also relevant for people with chronic digestive conditions, those on long-term antibiotics, or anyone concerned about their intestinal health.
Elevated levels of Hafnia species can occur in people with diarrhea and can cause illness in people with weakened immune systems.
Hafnia in stool can be a particular concern for children and the elderly. In children, their developing immune systems make them more susceptible to infections from gut bacteria imbalances. Symptoms might include diarrhea and abdominal pain. In the elderly, weakened immunity and the impact of medications like antibiotics can disrupt normal gut flora, potentially leading to complications from bacteria like Hafnia.