what is campylobacter

Campylobacter is a genus of bacteria that can cause an infectious disease called campylobacteriosis. It is one of the most common bacterial causes of diarrheal illness in the United States, affecting an estimated 1.5 million people each year. The bacteria are mainly spiral-shaped, "S"-shaped, or curved, and are prevalent in warm-blooded animals, including poultry, cattle, pigs, sheep, and pets such as cats and dogs. Campylobacteriosis is typically transmitted to humans through the consumption of contaminated food, particularly raw or undercooked poultry, meat, or eggs, as well as through contact with infected animals or drinking untreated water. The symptoms of campylobacteriosis include diarrhea (often bloody), abdominal pain, fever, headache, nausea, and vomiting, and the illness typically lasts about one week. While most people recover from campylobacteriosis without antibiotic treatment, some may require antibiotics, especially those with weakened immune systems. It is important to handle and cook food properly to prevent campylobacteriosis, and to avoid drinking untreated water and contact with infected animals.