Campylobacter jejuni is a spiral-shaped bacterium and a frequent cause of the foodborne illness campylobacteriosis. This infection is a form of gastroenteritis that causes stomach upset, nausea, and diarrhea. While most cases are mild, it can sometimes lead to more severe health issues.
Sources of Infection
The primary way people become infected with Campylobacter jejuni is through the consumption of contaminated food and water. Raw or undercooked poultry is a major source, as the bacteria naturally reside in the intestinal tracts of birds like chickens. During processing, the bacteria can be transferred from the intestines to the meat.
Cross-contamination is another significant route of transmission in kitchen environments. Using the same cutting board or utensils for raw chicken and then for fresh produce, like salad vegetables, can transfer the bacteria. It is important to maintain separate food preparation surfaces to prevent this spread.
Other sources include unpasteurized milk and contaminated water. Water from wells, streams, or lakes can become contaminated by the feces of infected animals. Direct contact with infected animals, including pets like puppies or livestock, is also a route of infection.
Symptoms of Campylobacteriosis
The symptoms of campylobacteriosis typically manifest two to five days after exposure to the bacteria, an incubation period that can range from one to ten days. The most common symptoms include diarrhea, which can often be bloody, severe abdominal pain, and cramping. These are frequently accompanied by fever, nausea, and sometimes vomiting.
The acute phase of the illness generally lasts for about one week, and most individuals recover without specific medical treatment. The severity and duration of symptoms can vary, and in children, symptoms might be more pronounced. While most cases resolve, some issues like abdominal pain may linger for a longer period.
Treatment and Medical Consultation
For most individuals, managing a Campylobacter infection involves supportive care at home, with a focus on preventing dehydration. Because diarrhea and vomiting can lead to a significant loss of fluids, it is important to drink plenty of liquids. Water, broth, or oral rehydration solutions can replenish what is lost.
While most infections are self-limiting, certain signs indicate the need for medical advice. A doctor should be consulted for a high fever, signs of severe dehydration such as infrequent urination, or if blood is present in the stool. If symptoms do not improve or worsen after a week, medical evaluation is also recommended.
Antibiotics are not routinely prescribed for mild cases of campylobacteriosis, as the body’s immune system can clear the infection on its own. However, for infections that are severe or prolonged, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics. They may also be prescribed for individuals at higher risk, such as the very young, the elderly, or those with weakened immune systems.
Prevention Strategies
Preventing Campylobacter infection centers on safe food handling and preparation, particularly with poultry. Cooking chicken and other poultry to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is a primary defense. Using a food thermometer is the only reliable way to ensure the meat has reached a temperature high enough to kill the bacteria.
A major focus of prevention is avoiding cross-contamination in the kitchen. Several practices are recommended:
- Keep raw meats separate from ready-to-eat foods at all times, from the grocery cart to the refrigerator and during preparation.
- Use different cutting boards and utensils for raw poultry and other foods like vegetables and fruits.
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling raw meat.
- Clean and sanitize all surfaces and equipment that came into contact with it.
Beyond the kitchen, other measures contribute to prevention. Consuming only pasteurized milk and dairy products eliminates the risk from that source. When there is uncertainty about the safety of drinking water, such as during travel or when using private wells, it is best to boil, filter, or otherwise treat it before consumption.
Associated Complications
Although most people recover from campylobacteriosis without lasting effects, a small number of individuals may develop subsequent health problems. These post-infection complications are rare but can be serious, occurring when the infection triggers an unusual immune system response.
The most notable complication is Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS). In this condition, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own nerves, leading to muscle weakness and, in severe cases, paralysis. GBS typically develops within a few weeks after the diarrheal illness has resolved.
Another potential complication is reactive arthritis. This condition involves inflammation of the joints, causing pain and swelling that can last for several months. The knees, ankles, and feet are often affected. Less commonly, the infection can spread to the bloodstream (bacteremia), which primarily occurs in individuals with compromised immune systems.