Hafnia is a genus of bacteria commonly found in the intestinal tract and considered part of the normal gut flora. While typically harmless, its presence in stool may reflect changes in gut microbiota or signal potential digestive imbalances.
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.