Campylobacteriosis (Camp-E-low-bact-ear-E-O-sis) is an infection caused by the bacteria Campylobacter. These bacteria live in the intestines of a variety of animals who may not be sick themselves. Eating raw or undercooked poultry is one of the most common ways to become sick with Campylobacter. This bacterium causes the most bacterial diarrheal illnesses in the United States and in the state of Indiana.
Infections are often associated with the following:
It takes very few Campylobacter bacteria to make someone sick. A single drop of juice from raw chicken can contain enough bacteria to infect someone.
Most people get sick with Campylobacter by eating raw or undercooked poultry or eating or drinking something contaminated with it. Campylobacter are also spread through other foods, such as seafood, meat, and produce. People can also be infected by contact with animals and by drinking untreated water. Campylobacter does not usually spread from one person to another.
Campylobacter may also be found in the poop of some pets, especially those with diarrhea. Historically, people can become infected if they do not wash their hands after contact with these pets. People have historically gotten sick with Campylobacter from contact with puppies and kittens.
Symptoms include:
Symptoms usually begin within two to five days after exposure to the bacteria. Most people get better within seven days.
Diagnosis
Campylobacter infection is diagnosed when a laboratory test detects Campylobacter bacteria in stool (poop), body tissue, or fluids.
Treatment
Most people get better without antibiotic treatment. Patients should drink extra fluids to avoid complications, such as dehydration.
Some people with, or at risk for, severe illness might need antibiotic treatment. These people include those who are 65 years or older, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems.
You can prevent campylobacteriosis by:
Once you or your child start having symptoms of the illness, such as diarrhea, do not attend work (specifically for food handlers, healthcare workers, daycare workers), attend daycare or school until a healthcare provider or someone from your local health department says you are clear to go back. If you believe you have campylobacteriosis and have not yet been treated or spoken to a doctor, please be sure to do so. You should be evaluated by a doctor to confirm that you have campylobacteriosis, and that you get the correct treatment. You should also respond to requests for interview by your local or state public health department. An investigation will take place for every confirmed case of campylobacteriosis. It is important that you answer the call from your local or state health department so that other people in your home or near you are not at risk of getting campylobacteriosis as well. An investigation may also look into your exposures to check if other people are at risk.
For more information on what to do if you have a Campylobacter illness, please follow the exclusion criteria from the Indiana Communicable Disease Rule.
Page last updated/reviewed: December 2024
