Campylobacter infections

What is a Campylobacter infection?

The causative agent of Campylobacter infections are bacteria. Illnesses with this pathogen lead to diarrhea and occur more frequently worldwide during the warm season.

Where do Campylobacter pathogens occur?

Campylobacter pathogens are predominantly found in pigs but also in all other mammals, free-living birds and poultry.

How does the infection occur?

Campylobacter infections occur in humans preferably through the consumption of food. The primary sources of infection are raw or insufficiently heated meat and meat products, poultry, and milk and milk products. The incubation period (time from ingestion of the pathogens to illness) is usually 2-5 days, in individual cases 1-10 days.

What are the symptoms?

The diarrhea can be mushy to massively watery, not infrequently also bloody. Furthermore, there is a rise in temperature, abdominal cramps, headache, nausea and vomiting. The disease usually lasts up to a week, sometimes longer. The contagiousness exists as long as pathogens are excreted in the stool.

What are the diagnostic measures?

The diagnosis is usually confirmed by detecting the pathogens in the stool.

What should I do if I fall ill?

Particular care should be taken to maintain personal hygiene after visiting the toilet. Children may return to schools and other community facilities after clinical symptoms have subsided in accordance with § 34 IfSG. Pursuant to Section 42 (1) IfSG, persons are prohibited from working in the production, handling or marketing of foodstuffs until two negative stool tests have been submitted. The ban on activities is imposed by the Office for Health and Consumer Protection.