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Public Health Solutions
District Health Department
995 East Hwy 33, Ste 1
Crete, NE 68333-2562
888.310.0565
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Campylobacter
What is Campylobacter?
Campylobacter is a type of bacteria that cause an infection of the gastrointestinal tract. It is the most commonly reported cause of bacterial diarrhea in Nebraska. It occurs most frequently during the warm months (May through October), causing sporadic illness. Outbreaks of Campylobacter are relatively uncommon with just two reported outbreaks in the 1990s in Nebraska. Sporadic illness due to Campylobacter outnumbers sporadic illness due to Salmonella by at least 2:1.
Who is at risk for getting Campylobacter infections?
Anyone can get the Campylobacter infection. In developing countries, Campylobacter infections are associated with illness more often in children than adults, suggesting immune response after repeated infections protects against development of symptoms, but not against colonization of the organism.
How is Campylobacter spread?
The primary source of infection is chronically infected poultry (especially chicken) and other animals. Most raw poultry meat is contaminated with Campylobacter. Other animals such as cattle, swine, and dogs carry the bacteria in their intestines. Unpasteurized milk can also be a source of infection. Campylobacter can be a cause of diarrhea in puppies and kittens. Person-to-person spread also plays a role in the spread of Campylobacter.
What is the incubation period for Campylobacter?
Symptoms generally appear three to five days after exposure, with a range of 1 to 10 days after exposure.
What are the symptoms of Campylobacter infections?
Symptoms range from none to illness including diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea and vomiting, abdominal cramps, and fever. The illness usually lasts 2 to 5 days -- rarely over 10 days. Upon recovery, the bacteria continues to be shed in the stool for a few days to two months, if not treated with antibiotics.
Should infected persons be isolated or excluded from school or work?
Since the organism is passed in the stool, only persons who cannot control their bowel habits (i.e., infants and young children and certain individuals with disabilities) should be isolated. Most persons can return to work or school after their diarrhea ceases, provided they carefully wash their hands after using the restroom. Food handlers, people who attend or work in a child care facility, and health care workers, should have stool cultures repeated after completing antibiotic therapy to ensure the organism is not present in the stool.
What is the standard treatment for Campylobacter infections?
Most people will recover on their own, without antibiotic therapy. For most symptomatic persons, drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration is all that is necessary. People with severe illness may need antibiotic therapy. Antibiotics may also be necessary to shorten the carrier state, especially in food handlers, people who attend or work in a child care facility, and health care workers. Since relapse of symptoms occasionally occurs, some physicians may treat the infected person with antibiotics to prevent relapses.
How can Campylobacter infections be prevented?
- Always treat raw meat as if it is contaminated and handle accordingly:
- Wrap fresh meats in plastic bags at the market to prevent blood from dripping on other foods.
- Refrigerate foods promptly, minimize holding at room temperature.
- Cutting boards and counters used for preparation should be washed immediately after use to prevent cross contamination of other food items.
- Avoid eating raw or undercooked meats.
- Ensure that the correct internal cooking temperature is reached, especially when using a microwave.
- Avoid eating raw eggs or undercooked foods containing raw eggs.
- Avoid using unpasteurized milk.
- Carefully wash hands with warm, soapy water before and after food preparation.
- Wash hands with warm, soapy water after playing with pets.
- Recognize and control Campylobacter infections in pets.
- Always wash hands with warm, soapy water after using the restroom.
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