Campylobacteriosis

What is campylobacteriosis?

Campylobacteriosis is a foodborne disease that is caused by the Campylobacter bacteria.

How is campylobacteriosis transmitted?

Campylobacteriosis is usually spread through the consumption of undercooked food, especially chicken, drinking unpasteurised milk, or consuming food or water that has been contaminated.

What are the symptoms of campylobacteriosis? 

Symptoms include:

• Diarrhoea that can be bloody

• Stomach pain

• Fever

• Headache

• Nausea

• Vomiting

In some cases, complications can develop such as reactive arthritis (joint pain) or a serious nerve condition called Guillain-Barré syndrome.

What are the risk factors?

These groups of people face higher risks of getting campylobacteriosis:

• Children under the age of 5

• Adults who are 65 years old and above

• Persons with weakened immune systems

• Persons who work with animals

• International travellers

How is campylobacteriosis treated?

Campylobacteriosis is usually mild and goes away on its own in patients with healthy immune systems. Treatment focuses on rehydration and in relieving symptoms. In severe cases, antibiotics may be used to treat or prevent more serious illness, particularly in older adults, pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals.

How to prevent campylobacteriosis?

You can help protect yourself and others from campylobacteriosis by taking the following precautions:

• Consume food and water from safe, reliable sources only.

• Wash your hands often, especially before, and after food handling, eating, and using the toilet.

• Avoid drinking unpasteurised milk or dairy products.

• Keep utensils and cutting boards that have been used with raw poultry separate and wash them thoroughly.

• Make sure food is cooked thoroughly.
  
  Note: There is no approved vaccine against campylobacteriosis in Singapore.