Campylobacter jejuni

Abstract

Campylobacter jejuni is the most frequently diagnosed bacterial cause of human gastroenteritis in the United States. The emergence of antimicrobial-resistant and, in particular, of fluoroquinolone-resistant C. jejuni infections in Europe and the United States, temporally associated with the approval of use of fluoroquinolones in veterinary medicine, is an important public health concern. Recent research has provided strong evidence for an association between Campylobacter infection and Guillain-Barr Syndrome (GBS), and Campylobacter is the most frequent antecedent infection in GBS. The consumption of undercooked poultry and cross-contamination of other foods with uncooked meat products are leading risk factors for human campylobacteriosis. Reinforcing hygienic practices at each link in the food chain, from producer to consumer, is critical in preventing the disease.