What is it?

Campylobacter jejuni is a bacterium that causes intestinal (gut) infection.

Symptoms include:

• Fever
• Muscle aches
• Headaches
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhoea
• Vomiting is rare but may occur in children.

Is it Infectious?

The organism colonises the intestines of many domestic and wild animals, which are ultimately the source of human infections. Poultry is particularly important, especially undercooked chicken. Cross contamination of other food items may occur via work surfaces or kitchen utensils. Transmission can also occur from infected water, unpasteurised milk, or by direct contact with animals.

• This is the most common form of food poisoning.

What is the incubation period?

Symptoms usually begin 2 - 5 days after eating contaminated food but has a range of 1 – 10 days.

What should I do if someone has the illness?

Most people will get better with no treatment. For some infections antibiotics may even increase the length of the illness. At first, the infected person should drink plenty of clear fluids and try not to eat. Water, non fizzy fruit drinks or tea without milk are good. If the symptoms persist, or there is blood in the diarrhoea, the person should contact their GP. Medical advice can also be obtained from NHS Direct on 0845 4647.

How can spread be avoided?

Personal hygiene should be very strict. Everyone should wash their hands with warm, soapy water after going to the toilet and before handling food. The toilet should be kept clean, including the seat and handle.

How soon can someone return to school/work?

People should stay away from school or work until they have been free of symptoms for 48 hours. Those who handle food as part of their work should check with their employers and GP before returning.

For further information follow the links below.

Date Published: 28/03/08