Campylobacter Infection (Campylobacteriosis)

Overview

Campylobacter infection, or campylobacteriosis, is caused by Campylobacter bacteria. It is the most common bacterial cause of diarrheal illness in the United States and affects an estimated 1.5 million U.S. residents each year. Most Campylobacter infections are likely acquired by eating raw or undercooked poultry or eating something that touched it, though ingesting other foods (seafood, meat, produce, etc.) can also transmit the bacteria. Other sources of infection include contact with animals and drinking untreated water.

Symptoms of campylobacteriosis include diarrhea (often bloody), fever, stomach cramps, nausea and vomiting. Symptoms develop two to five days after infection and typically last about one week.

You must report cases of campylobacteriosis within 3 days.

To report, call the reporting line at 360-728-2235 or fax the reporting form to 360-813-1168.