This microbe formerly was considered either a member of the Cedecea or Enterobacter groups, but DNA hybridization studies now point to its belonging in a new genus. It is a Gram negative rod-shaped bacterium most frequently isolated from blood and the respiratory system, but has also been recovered from wounds, sputum, urine, and stool. Reported diseases associated with this microbe are rare, but include wound infections, respiratory tract infections, and infections following invasive surgery. The rods occur singly or in pairs and can be motile by peritrichous flagella. Growth occurs optimally at 35-37 C. It is primarily an opportunistic pathogen (only causes disease in weakened hosts), but a few strains are potent pathogens.