[Helicobacter pylori: routes of transmission of infection (a review of literature)].

The paper reviews the data characterizing the routes of transmission of Helicobacter pylori. Particular emphasis is laid on the water transmission route that has not been long considered to be important despite strong epidemiological evidence that allows it to be regarded as one of the most important routes of transmission of this infection. It describes the most favorable conditions for this microorganism to survive in the water systems, including plumbing, and a possible survival mechanism via biofilm formation and zooplankton symbiosis. The pathogen is able to bind to autochronous microorganisms in the biofilms and to generate itself the latter. It is not inconceivable that this microbe can persist and even multiply within protozoa. Due to the improved analytical studies, there are additional possibilities to detect new pathogenic microorganisms that have not been historically regarded as pollutants. These microorganisms are of interest to community hygiene specialists. The preferred routes of urban and rural transmission of the pathogen may be different, which should be taken into account when elaborating preventive measures.