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Campylobacter jejuni organism
Campylobacter jejuni organism
Digestive system
Digestive system
Digestive system organs
Digestive system organs


Campylobacter enteritis

Definition:

Campylobacter enteritis is an infection in the small intestine caused by Campylobacter jejuni, a type of bacteria.



Alternative Names:
Food poisoning - campylobacter enteritis; Infectious diarrhea - campylobacter enteritis; Bacterial diarrhea

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Campylobacter enteritis is a common cause of intestinal infection. This bacteria also causes one of the many types of traveler's diarrhea.

The infection is usually acquired by eating or drinking contaminated food or water, often raw poultry, fresh produce, or unpasteurized milk. It can also be acquired by close contact with infected people or animals. There is an incubation period of 2-4 days before symptoms occur. Symptoms generally last one week.

Risk factors include recent family infection with C. jejuni, recent consumption of improperly prepared food, or recent travel in an area of poor hygiene or sanitation.




Review Date: 11/10/2004
Reviewed By: John Goldenring, M.D., M.P.H, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, San Diego, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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