People at higher risk ofCampylobacterinfection, orcampylobacteriosis, include young children and adults age 65 and older.
Treatment with antibiotics may be needed though most infections clear up on their own.
The most common symptoms of campylobacteriosis include:
Only small exposures are needed.
Illustration by Nusha Ashjaee for Verywell Health
How Long Do Campylobacter Symptoms Last?
Symptoms ofCampylobacterinfection typically start about two to five days after you come into contact with the bacteria.
For most people, they will go away after about a week.
Raw (unpasteurized) milk or eggs, untreated water, and unwashed fruits and vegetables also carry risk.
It is also possible to become infected through pet feces, especially dogs or cats.
Other causes can occur.
In very rare instances, for example, people have become infected throughblood transfusions.
Other tests may be needed in specific cases that lead to complications.
Treatment
MostCampylobacterinfections in humans clear up just fine on their own, without the help of medications.
Others, however, can go on to develop complicationssome of which are serious.
Researchers have identified some 40 strains ofCampylobacterinfection.
But you should contact your provider if:
Summary
Campylobacteris a common cause of foodborne illness.
Most often, the culprit is undercooked poultry.
Other sources of infection include, but are not limited to, contaminated water and milk.
Most people recover fromCampylobacterinfection on their own, but some may require antibiotic treatment.
Prevent spreadingCampylobacterand other foodborne pathogens by properly handling your food and practicing careful hygiene.
United States Department of Agriculture.Campylobacter(campylobacteriosis) questions and answers.
New York State Department of Health.Campylobacteriosis.
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.Bacteria and viruses.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Campylobacter(Campylobacteriosis) Antibiotic Resistance.
Open Forum Infect Dis.
2024 Mar 13;11(3):ofae131.
doi:10.1093/ofid/ofae131
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Campylobacter(Campylobacteriosis) Prevention.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Symptoms ofCampylobacterInfection.
