Campylobacter, the unpopular pathogen
Campylobacter is one of those bacteria that causes gastroenteritis, but may also cause systemic illness. It is classified as a pathogen, however it is not seen in the same light as listeria, Salmonella or E.coli. Even the regulators around the world are having doubt if this organism should be regulated.
Who knows, however campylobacter will always be less popular and remain in the shadows of the salmonella, listeria and E.coli.
Symptoms of campylobacter infection include diarrhea with loose bowel movements that maybe bloody, fever and stomach cramps. The most vulnerable to severe infections are the very young, the elderly and malnourished people.
The most frequent cause of the infection is by eating contaminated foods with raw or under cooked poultry being the main culprit. Other sources include household pets, especially puppies and kittens, domestic stock, and contaminated water.
The incubation period for developing the symptoms can vary between 1 - 10 days with this being dependant upon the levels of campylobacter being ingested and the health of the individual. The infected person is infectious for as long as the Campylobacter bacteria are in their faeces, which may be for an average of 2-3 weeks after symptoms are gone. The risk of infecting others decreases when diarrhea is no longer present.
So how do you control this pathogen? Easily, just follow some good personal hygiene.
* Wash hands after handling raw meat, and keep food preparation areas clean
* If possible wear disposable gloves when preparing raw meats.
* Wash hands after gardening, or touching animals and where possible use antiseptic handwash
* Meat, particularly poultry, should be thoroughly cooked
* Do not store uncooked poultry near foods which will be eaten raw, such as salad items
* If pets are sick with diarrhoeal illness, have them treated.
