Friday, 16 September 2011
Campylobacter spp. is the most common bacterial cause of gastroenteritis in Ireland and Europe.
Campylobacter spp. are microaerophilic, Gram-negative, spiral shaped cells with corkscrew-like motility.
They are the most common cause of bacterial gastroenteritis in many countries (including Ireland) and are transmitted primarily through foods to humans. Campylobacter jejuni is the predominant species associated with human illness, other species being Campylobacter coli and Campylobacter lari.
Campylobacter spp. are frequently isolated from foods of animal origin. Poultry is regarded as one of the most important reservoirs for Campylobacter spp. and constitutes a very significant vehicle for its transmission to humans.
