Slaughterhouse workers (SHWs) face occupational risk of zoonotic Campylobacter infection (ZCI) but exposure data are limited in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), particularly Nigeria. This study assessed behavioral, educational, and infrastructural factors affecting Campylobacter exposure among 188 SHWs in Enugu, Nigeria. Data on socio-demographics, hygiene practices, knowledge of zoonotic transmission, and self-reported gastroenteritis symptoms were collected via a validated questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression identified determinants of risky practices, knowledge gaps, and symptoms. Overall, 56.4% of SHWs were classified as high-risk for Campylobacter exposure. Unsafe practices included non-use of personal protective equipment (PPE) (77.1%), washing multiple carcasses in the same bowl (54.8%), eating or drinking during processing (45.7%), and consuming raw or undercooked meat (36.7%). Non-potable water was used by 90.4% of respondents, with only 14.1% purifying it. Behavioral practices aiding ZCI were significantly associated with lack of hygiene training (OR=3.7, 95% CI: 1.7-8.0, p=0.001), low educational attainment (OR=2.8, 95% CI: 0.15-0.85, p=0.020), age≥45years (OR=2.1, 95% CI: 0.25-0.92, p=0.028), and urban slaughterhouse location (OR=2.4, 95% CI: 1.26-4.57, p=0.007). Knowledge gaps were common, with 28-57% unaware of transmission risks via meat, water, PPE, or eating during processing. Self-reported gastroenteritis symptoms were documented in 64.4% of SHWs, with 76% continuing work while symptomatic. Having <10years' work experience (AOR=2.84, 95% CI: 1.36-5.95, p=0.006), lack of training (AOR=2.74, 95% CI: 1.12-6.67, p=0.027), low knowledge of Campylobacter transmission dynamics (AOR=4.46, 95% CI: 2.02-9.87, p<0.001), and high-risk practices (AOR=6.98, 95% CI: 3.0-16.2, p<0.001) were independently associated with symptoms. These findings highlight critical occupational exposure, entrenched unsafe practices, and knowledge deficits. Targeted One Health interventions, including provision of potable water, mandatory use of PPE, and context-specific hygiene training are urgently needed to reduce zoonotic Campylobacter transmission risks and enhance food safety in the study area.

Beijing, a large urban center with complex food supply chains, faces increasing challenges from foodborne Campylobacter infections. However, local data on antimicrobial resistance, source attribution, and pathogenic characteristics remain limited. This study aimed to clarify long-term trends, resistance patterns, and likely infection sources of Campylobacter in Beijing to inform prevention and treatment strategies. From 2016 to 2023, 27,691 stool samples were collected from patients with foodborne diseases in 45 hospitals across Beijing. Campylobacter isolates were recovered and identified, followed by antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and whole-genome sequencing. A core-genome MLST-based extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) model was applied for machine-learning source attribution. A total of 1204 Campylobacter isolates were identified, including 1005 C. jejuni, 198 C. coli and one C. fetus. The proportion of C. coli increased compared with the early surveillance years and reached its highest level in 2023. Both C. jejuni and C. coli showed >90% resistance to fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines, and C. coli has a much higher resistance rate to macrolide. Machine-learning analysis identified chicken as the major source for C. coli infections, accounting for 75.76% cases. This 8-year genomic surveillance highlights the sustained and increasing contribution of C. coli and extensive resistance in Beijing, supporting targeted control measures and antibiotic stewardship in foodborne disease management.

Campylobacter species, particularly Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli, are among the leading global causes of bacterial gastroenteritis and are primarily transmitted through contaminated food, water and animal products. Despite their recognised role in enteric infections, the broader clinical and public health significance of Campylobacter remains underappreciated, particularly in developing countries such as India. Beyond gastrointestinal illness, these pathogens are increasingly associated with a range of extraintestinal complications, including bacteremia, neurological disorders and immune-mediated sequelae. Their zoonotic nature, environmental persistence, and evolving antimicrobial resistance further complicate disease management and control. In India, limited surveillance and diagnostic challenges contribute to underestimating the true burden of Campylobacter infections. This review examines the epidemiology of Campylobacter infections in India and highlights the expanding spectrum of extraintestinal manifestations associated with these pathogens. It also seeks to explore the mechanisms underlying immune-mediated complications and assess the growing concern of antimicrobial resistance in Campylobacter species. The review discusses the epidemiological trends and transmission pathways of Campylobacter, emphasizing zoonotic reservoirs, contaminated food and water, occupational exposure, and travel-related risks. It further explores extraintestinal manifestations such as bacteraemia, Guillain-Barré syndrome, and reactive arthritis, with attention to pathogenic mechanisms including molecular mimicry and immune response. Advances and limitations in diagnostic approaches, particularly the detection of Campylobacter from non-stool and systemic samples, are also addressed. Additionally. The review highlights the emerging threat of antimicrobial resistance, particularly linked to antibiotic use in animal husbandry. Finally, it underscores the importance of integrated prevention and control strategies under the One Health framework, along with strengthened surveillance, improved diagnostics and continued research to address the growing public health challenge posed by Campylobacter.

Campylobacter is the most common bacterial cause of foodborne illness globally. Both symptomatic and asymptomatic infections with Campylobacter species have been associated with growth faltering of children in low-resource settings, while previous prevalence studies primarily focused on diarrheal disease in children. Here, we leverage the data collected from the Campylobacter Genomics and Environmental Enteric Dysfunction (CAGED) project to characterize the spatial patterns of Campylobacter infections among infants with or without diarrhea in rural Eastern Ethiopia. Randomly enrolled infants (n=106) were followed from birth to around 13months, with fecal samples collected monthly. Livestock feces, drinking water, and soil samples were collected biannually. Campylobacter was detected and quantified using genus-specific PCR and species-specific PCR for four species. We employed a spatial filtering approach using genus-specific data to generate smoothed prevalence surfaces by month and age group. Temporally, an upward trend of prevalence was observed as the children grew older. Spatially, high-prevalence areas were distributed across the whole study area. To relate disease risk to environmental conditions, we used ecological niche modeling with MaxEnt to estimate habitat suitability of the genus Campylobacter and two dominant species identified by PCR results. Elevation, vegetation index, and slope were the most important contributors, and all distribution models suggested areas in the north were more likely to support the pathogen. These results inform Campylobacter infection patterns and identify target areas with higher risk of Campylobacter in low-resource settings. This further contributes to developing effective intervention strategies in the future.

Prospective multicenter evaluation of the QuickNavi-Campylobacter assay in stool specimens.

IntroductionAlthough risk factors associated with Campylobacter infection in poultry have been recognised, a notable gap exists associated with this infection in backyard poultry.Material and MethodsBirds were examined by taking 315 cloacal swabs in six small, backyard poultry flocks of ducks, geese and ornamental chickens to determine the occurrence, genetic diversity and antimicrobial susceptibility of Campylobacter spp. Genomic diversity was assessed by sequencing the short variable region of the flaA gene and by virulence gene profiling. Antimicrobial susceptibility was analysed by the minimal inhibitory concentration method with the agar dilution technique.ResultsThe prevalence of Campylobacter was 5.1%, with positive findings limited to ducks and ornamental chickens. A total of 16 isolates were recovered, comprising 14 of C. jejuni and 2 of C. coli. Duck isolates showed higher genetic diversity (Simpson’s diversity index (SDI) = 1.000), but ornamental chicken isolates were also not homogeneous (SDI = 0.911). The most frequently detected virulence determinants were flaA (100.0%), ciaB (75.0%), cadF (62.5%) and cdtC (62.5%). Antimicrobial resistance was most frequently to ciprofloxacin (93.8%), and to tetracycline (43.8%) and erythromycin (43.8%) in many instances, while multidrug resistance was found in 18.8% of isolates.ConclusionThe results will contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the ecology and transmission dynamics of Campylobacter under the One Health framework.

Non-typhoidal Salmonella (NTS) and thermotolerant Campylobacter remain leading causes of bacterial gastroenteritis worldwide, with a disproportionate burden in low- and middle-income regions. This updated review synthesizes current evidence on their epidemiology, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) dynamics, and the role of genomic epidemiology within a One Health framework. The global expansion of multidrug-resistant clones, driven largely by antimicrobial use in agriculture, increasingly compromises therapeutic options. Advances in whole-genome sequencing (WGS) have enhanced outbreak detection, source attribution, and tracking of AMR gene transmission across human, animal, and environmental reservoirs. Recent large-scale genomic analyses further clarify the temporal evolution and international dissemination of high-risk lineages. We argue that effective mitigation requires coordinated genomic surveillance, strengthened antimicrobial stewardship, and targeted interventions across the food chain. Implementing genomics-informed, cross-sectoral strategies under the One Health paradigm is essential to reduce disease burden and contain the spread of resistance.

The canine gut microbiome plays a crucial role in host health, yet assessment of its temporal variability remains largely unexplored. Here, we used full-length 16S rRNA gene sequencing to evaluate long-term temporal variability of the fecal microbiomes of 35 healthy dogs sampled monthly over 1–2 years (median samples per dog: 10, range: 5–28 samples per dog, during the years 2020–2023). Analyses revealed that while individual-specific signatures in microbiome composition were observed (PERMANOVA R2 = 0.39, p = 0.001), fecal microbiomes exhibited substantial temporal fluctuations within individuals (9/35 dogs with microbiome dispersion ≥ 75%tile). Microbiome alpha-diversity was also not temporally stable (GAM F = 4.99, p = 0.025). The relative abundances of the 35 bacterial species varied considerably over time with Escherichia coli, and Enterococcus faecium especially dynamic (median CV 243–249%), and Peptacetobacter hiranonis and Collinsella intestinalis more stable (median CV 112–120%). Several taxa exhibited seasonal patterns, such as Fusobacterium spp. peaking in late summer and Peptacetobacter hiranonis declining in July. Collectively, these findings indicate that temporal fluctuations are an inherent feature of the healthy canine microbiome. Lastly, since our sampling captured occasional parasite or pathogen infections, we assessed whether transient C. perfringens, Giardia, or Campylobacter infections were correlated with microbiome alpha- and beta-diversity. We found no correlations with beta-diversity (p > 0.05), but a Giardia infection was associated with lower alpha-diversity (GLMM β= -0.37, p = 0.04).

Recent therapeutic advances have yielded higher remission rates than before in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), while many patients in remission still experience gastrointestinal symptoms. These persistent symptoms could be caused by functional bowel disorders and are associated with increased psychological distress. Patients with IBD may have symptoms like functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGID) even before the disease onset, and distinguishing between disease flare and functional symptoms is often difficult. Gastrointestinal infections such as Campylobacter infection may contribute to the onset of both IBD and FGID. The pathophysiology of FGIDs in IBD is complex and multifactorial, involving genetic predisposition, dysregulation of the gut-brain axis, intestinal dysbiosis, impaired mucosal permeability, and low-grade inflammation. These factors further interact with each other to cause symptoms. Management of patients with IBD who present symptoms of FGIDs requires a multifaceted approach based on the principles of FGID treatment under the premise of complete control of intestinal inflammation. In this review, we discuss the clinical overlap, pathophysiology, diagnostic challenges, and a structured approach for patients with IBD who are complicated by symptoms of FGIDs.

A minority of Campylobacter infections cause severe morbidity, yet admission rates for patients requiring hospital-based treatment are poorly understood. Our study aimed to quantify the percentage of Campylobacter infections requiring hospitalisation and determine variation by patient subgroups. Using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, we performed a systematic review and meta-analyses of globally reported hospitalisation frequencies for Campylobacter infections. We performed a risk of bias assessment, followed by meta-analyses under the assumption of common parameters. Results were interpreted from the Quality Effects (QE) models in MetaXL and the heterogeneity of included studies assessed using chi-square tests. In addition to the primary meta-analysis for Campylobacter infections overall, we conducted subgroup analyses by Campylobacter species, demographic group, clinical group, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) status, start decade of cases and event type (sporadic or outbreak-associated). The study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023493466). A total of 137 articles (containing 235 studies) published from 1979 to 2025 were eligible for meta-analysis. These publications contained 1,377,770 Campylobacter infections for 946 patient groups (data points), primarily from North America, Europe and Oceania. In the pooled analysis of hospitalisation frequencies for Campylobacter infections, 13.8% (95% CI 9.6-18.6) of individuals were hospitalised. Steady increases in hospitalisation frequency were observed over time. In a pooled analysis of data from three studies, species other than C. jejuni or C. coli were associated with a higher frequency of hospitalisation (27.3%; 95% CI 11.0-47.2). Pooled hospitalisation frequencies of males (6.4%; 95% CI 1.4-14.1) and females (6.8%; 95% CI 1.5-15.0) were similar, and patients aged ≥65 years (27.9%; 95% CI 13.5-45.0) and children <1 year old (15.6%; 95% CI 9.8-22.4) were hospitalised more often compared to other age groups. Patients with pre-existing conditions were at higher risk of hospitalisation (37.1%; 95% CI 13.4-64.2). Older age, comorbidities and infection with C. fetus were often associated with bacteraemia. Where bacteraemia was identified, most patients were hospitalised (89.5%; 95% CI 79.6-96.5). Hospitalisations were overrepresented amongst tetracycline-resistant Campylobacter infections (24.4% hospitalised; 95% CI 21.4-27.5). Cases associated with outbreaks were much less likely (4.2%; 95% CI 1.7-7.6) to be hospitalised compared to sporadic cases (16.1%; 95% CI 8.1-26.1). While most patients with Campylobacter infections are not hospitalised, vulnerable groups such as the very young, older adults and those with comorbidities are more likely to be hospitalised. The increase in hospitalisation frequency over time reinforces the urgent need to address this burden by prioritising research and interventions targeting Campylobacter exposure in vulnerable populations.

Here, we present a case of Bickerstaff's brain stem encephalitis secondary to suspected campylobacter infection. Diagnosis was based on the classical presentation; ophthalmoplegia, ataxia, reduced consciousness and hyperreflexia, exclusion of other pathology and was supported by MRI, cerebrospinal fluid and serological testing. Despite the strong association of anti-GM1 antibodies in campylobacter infection and subsequent Guillain-Barré syndrome, this is the first reported case of brainstem encephalitis secondary to campylobacter infection demonstrating positive antiganglioside IgG GM1 serology.

Background: The main causes of gastrointestinal diseases in children with a strong emphasis in low- and middle-income countries prove to be intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) and Campylobacter spp. Although these infections are clinically important, trends of the co-prevalence of the infection in Iraq have been limited, including its risk factors. Objective: The purpose of this study was to establish the frequency of IPIs and Campylobacter spp. in children who had gastrointestinal symptoms aged 6 months to 12 years in Babylon Province, Iraq, in addition to defining the sociodemographic and environmental risk factors. Methods: The cross-sectional study was carried out in Maternity and Children Hospital Babylon, in January-June 2025. Systematic random sampling was carried out with 400 children enrolled in the study. The sociodemographic and hygiene-related relevant data were measured based on a structured questionnaire. Parasites were evaluated in stool samples using direct wet mounting, formalin ether concentration technique and Ziehl Nelsen stain with some modification using microscopy. Selective culture on Campy-BAP was carried out followed by biochemical and PCR confirmation of Campylobacter spp. The injuries were analyzed statistically using the descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multi variable logistic regression. Results: The general IPIs prevalence rate was 34.5 with the commonest parasite being Giardia lamblia (16.8) followed by Entamoeba histolytica (12.8). The presence of Campylobacter spp. was observed in 17.2% of children, whereas 7.5% of them had co-infections. Important relationships were identified between the prevalence of IPI and residence in the country side, the presence of unclean water sources and poor hand hygiene (p < 0.001). Multivariate study revealed that the independent factors of IPIs were rural residence (AOR = 1.8), unsafe water intake (AOR = 2.2), and impaired hygiene (AOR = 3.1). Raw milk consumption (OR = 2.8) and animal contact (OR = 1.9) was found to be related to Campylobacter infections. Conclusion: Combined with the intestinal protozoa and Campylobacter spp. prevalence, gastrointestinal diseases in children in Babylon are highly prevalent and thus, the indication of integrated control measures is highly significant. It is of paramount importance to increase the awareness of water quality, hygiene education, as well as food safety, particularly in rural communities. Screening against parasitic and bacterial pathogens must become a part of pediatric care routine to minimize morbidity in endemic regions and the final outcomes of child health.

BackgroundCampylobacter is one of the common bacterial agents for gastroenteritis worldwide. Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), an autoimmune disorder of the peripheral nervous system, can be triggered by Campylobacter infection. Though 20-31% of GBS cases are estimated to be attributed to Campylobacter, the updated quantification of Campylobacter infections and their association with GBS is crucial for informing risk prevention strategies.The flow diagram illustrates the study selection process for inclusion in the analysis conducted in the COVIDENCE software.Figure 2.Forest plot illustrating the odds ratio of Campylobacter positivity in Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) cases compared to controls.MethodsA peer-reviewed paper published from 1990-2024 was obtained from various databases. MeSH terms created using inclusion: patients of any age, gender, and ethnicity with confirmed Campylobacter infection through stool culture, serology, or PCR, and developed GBS from Campylobacter infection; and exclusion: recent Influenza vaccine within 2 weeks, studies with insufficient data to calculate risk, and any other disease associated GBS (e.g. COVID-19) criteria. Manuscripts were systematically reviewed in the COVIDENCE software. Data (Figure 1) were extracted on characteristics, number of events, exposure status, participants' age, country, and study designs. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) were calculated from a random-effects model using R packages and R Studio. Heterogeneity, publication bias, and analysis sensitivity were evaluated.ResultsCase-control studies (n=29) comprising 2621 GBS cases, 2688 controls, and 1046 GBS with Campylobacter infections were included. The pooled mean age of the participants was 34.33 years [95% CI: 22.65-46.02]. The pooled OR was 68.21[43.90-105.99] (Figure 2). No heterogeneity was observed (I2 = 0.0% [0.0%; 41.9%]; tau2 = 0 [0.00; 0.31]). The Egger’s test and funnel plot symmetry indicated the absence of publication bias (p = 0.31). A leave-one-out sensitivity analysis showed no single study substantially influenced the pooled effect size.ConclusionPatients with prior Campylobacter infection have 68.21 times higher risk of GBS compared to uninfected individuals. This demonstrates a strong and statistically significant association between Campylobacter infection and the subsequent development of GBS. Further analysis for incidence, relative risk, and subgroup analysis (to be shared in the final presentation with additional review) will preserve the strength of association we found.DisclosuresSharjeel Ahmad, MD, MPH, FACP, FIDSA, Karius, Inc: Advisor/Consultant

Abstract Background Campylobacter species (spp) infection has been linked to the development of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), but its impact on the clinical course of patients with established IBD remains unclear. We aimed to assess the incidence and clinical consequences of Campylobacter spp. infection in patients with IBD. Methods We conducted a retrospective, propensity score-matched cohort study at a tertiary referral center in Spain. We identified all positive stool tests between 2010 and 2024. Patients aged ≥14 years old with Campylobacter infection were matched in a 1:2 ratio with uninfected controls using propensity score matching adjusted for age, sex, disease extent, and year of diagnosis. Results Among 2,662 positive Campylobacter spp. stool cultures, 42 (1.57%) occurred in patients with IBD (20 Crohn’s disease [CD], 22 ulcerative colitis [UC]). The incidence of Campylobacter infection was higher in patients with IBD compared to non-IBD population (1.656% vs. 0.576%; RR 2.87; 95% CI: 2.13–3.87; p &amp;lt; 0.0001). Infected patients had an increased risk of flare (71.3% vs. 28.7%; p = 0.007), hospital admission (78.6% vs. 21.4%; p &amp;lt; 0.001), and treatment intensification (75% vs. 25%; p = 0.013) within the first year after infection. In the multivariate analysis, Campylobacter infection was independently associated with worse disease outcomes, with significantly accelerated time to treatment escalation (HR 4.41, 95% CI 1.05–18.46; p = 0.043) and hospitalization (HR 11.20, 95% CI 1.81–69.37; p = 0.009). Conclusion Campylobacter spp. infection risk is increased in patients with IBD and it is associated with worse prognosis, increasing the risk of flare, hospitalization, and therapeutic intensification need during the first 12 months. These findings highlight the need for close follow-up and tailored management strategies after infection Conflict of interest: Ms. Alanon, Paloma: No conflict of interest Orti Cuerva, Marina: No conflict of interest Muñoz-Peña, Marta: No conflict of interest Causse, Manuel: No conflict of interest Benítez Cantero, José Manuel: JMB has served as a speaker, consultant and advisory member or has received grants or honoraria for scientific activities and presentations from Dr. Falk Pharma, Faes Farma, Ferring, Shire Pharmaceuticals, Chiesi, Tillotts Pharma, MSD, Abbvie, Takeda, Janssen. Marin Pedrosa, Sandra: NO Soto Escribano, Pilar: No conflict of interest Iglesias Flores, Eva: has served as a speaker, consultant and advisory member for or has received research funding from AbbVie, Janssen, Takeda, Gillead, Celgene, Pfizer, Lilly, Ferring, Faes Farma, Dr. Falk Pharma, Chiesi, and Adacyte, Gros, Beatriz: Beatriz Gros has served as a speaker for Abbvie, Johnson and Johnson, Takeda, Roche, Gilead, Pfizer and Galapagos and has served as an advisor for Roche, Gilead, Abbvie, Galapagos and Takeda

Broad-host-range bacteriophages CBP1 and CBP2 with dual-species activity against Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli.

Food-producing animals are key reservoirs of zoonotic Campylobacter species, mainly C. jejuni and C. coli, causing human gastroenteritis and animal reproductive issues. Epidemiological data on these pathogens in Nigeria are scarce, limiting control efforts. This study reports the first molecular epidemiology and clonal analysis of Campylobacter from humans and animals in Enugu State, Nigeria. Isolates were obtained using standard microbiological methods. Molecular identification employed conventional PCR, while genetic relatedness was assessed via ERIC-PCR. Campylobacter coli (61.1%) was the predominant species isolated in this study. The overall prevalence of Campylobacter species infections (CSI) was 18.5% (224/1,212). The host-specific prevalence were 16.5% (67/406), 20.4% (85/416) and 18.5% (72/390) for slaughtered cattle, poultry, and humans, respectively. In slaughtered cattle, CSI was significantly [χ2 (1) = 5, p = 0.032] associated with seasons but not with breed, age, sex and location. The infection was significantly [χ2 (1) = 8.9, p = 0.003] higher in broilers (26.2%, 56/214) when compared to other poultry types. Human CSI was higher in those aged ≥ 18 years (19.9%, 48/241), males (20.5%, 34/166) and slaughterhouse workers (25.2%, 26/103). In children, Campylobacter infection was prevalent in males (23.8%) than in females (10.5%). In pregnant women, CSI increased with both age and parity levels. The prevalence of Campylobacter infections was significantly higher (P < 0.05) during the rainy/wet season than in the dry/hot season in all three species studied. The ERIC-PCR fingerprinting provided evidence of inter-species and geospatial genetic relatedness in the 20 C. coli isolates tested. The findings warrant a One Health control approach against CSI in Enugu State, Nigeria, to mitigate the potential public health and socioeconomic consequences.

Abstract RE-CmeABC is a variant of the efflux pump CmeABC in the major zoonotic pathogen Campylobacter , which is much more potent in conferring resistance to various antibiotics for the treatment of Campylobacter infections in both veterinary and medical clinics. This potent multidrug efflux pump RE-CmeABC is widely distributed and disseminated around the world, posing a serious threat to public health. In this study, we targeted the key efflux protein RE-CmeB of RE-CmeABC to explore promising efflux pump inhibitors derived from natural products to improve the multidrug resistance of Campylobacter. We constructed a protein screening model and utilized virtual screening techniques, such as molecular docking, to identify potential efflux pump inhibitors from natural product databases. The activity and safety of these candidates were subsequently evaluated, and ZINC338037 was shown to inhibit antibiotic extrusion and restore the susceptibility of multidrug-resistant Campylobacter . In summary, a potential multidrug efflux pump inhibitor was identified and is expected to be developed as an adjuvant drug for the treatment of clinical infections caused by multidrug-resistant Campylobacter .

BackgroundCampylobacter is a genus of small, spiral Gram-negative rods, commonly associated with foodborne illnesses. Invasive Campylobacter infection is a rare clinical entity, associated with substantial risk of mortality. This complication is poorly described because of its rarity, accounting for <1% of Campylobacter spp. infections. There is limited published data regarding antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of Campylobacter species and limited interpretive criteria are available. We present a case of Campylobacter fetus infective endocarditis and mediastinal collection in a patient with a surgical history of Bentall procedure (combined placement of artificial aortic valve with an ascending aortic prosthetic graft).Case presentation: A 72 year old male, who underwent a Bentall procedure 2 years prior, requiring two subsequent sternotomies the following year, presented with fever and an enlarging mass sternal wound, at the site of a previous haematoma. A CT scan of his thorax demonstrated a large mediastinal collection, presumed abscess, extending through the anterior chest wall. Three sets of blood cultures taken on admission were positive for bacterial growth at 39 h; curved Gram-negative bacilli were seen on Gram staining. Subculture confirmed C. fetus 2 days later. Vegetations were not evident on transthoracic echocardiogram; the patient declined a transoesophageal echocardiogram. MRI brain showed multiple small infarcts, consistent with embolic events. Based on the Modified Duke criteria, this patient was diagnosed with prosthetic valve infective endocarditis. Radiological findings indicated involvement of the aortic prosthesis and associated mediastinitis. He was initially treated with meropenem, with addition of gentamicin 5mg/kg for the first 11 days. After discussion with colleagues at the Campylobacter Reference Service in Public Health Laboratory Dublin, 500 mg oral azithromycin daily, was added. Due to the number of previous redo sternotomies and patient preference, surgical source control was not an option. The large, expanding aortic pseudoaneurysm was deemed a life limiting condition. As the patient wished to be discharged home with palliative care, a life-long suppressive antibiotic was indicated. Ampicillin MIC was 0.75mg/L, however there are no EUCAST or CLSI breakpoints for C. fetus. blaOXA-61 mediated β-lactam resistance has been described in other members of the Campylobacter genus but WGS analysis of the isolate at the National Reference Laboratory did not identify any antimicrobial resistance genes. After 7 weeks of IV antibiotics the patient was switched to oral amoxicillin, 1g three times daily, for lifelong suppression and was discharged home, where he remained well after eight months.Discussion: Treatment guidelines for C. fetus infective endocarditis lack detail on antimicrobial treatment, reflecting limited evidence due to rarity. Consistent with the existing literature, which shows favourable in vitro activity and successful clinical outcomes, this case demonstrates successful initial treatment with carbapenem-based therapy. The reference laboratory's genotypic analysis facilitated the de-escalation of antimicrobial therapy, with the absence of resistance gene mechanisms confirming the results of phenotypic testing, providing valuable insights in the setting of limited established antimicrobial breakpoints.

Estimating non-optimal temperature-attributable burden of Salmonella and Campylobacter infections under various climate change, population, and adaptation scenarios in Australia: a comparative risk assessment modelling study.

Campylobacter jejuni is a leading cause of bacterial gastroenteritis worldwide; however, systemic infections such as bacteremia remain rare, particularly in immunocompetent individuals. This case report presents a rare instance of C. jejuni bacteremia in a 12-year-old girl undergoing chemotherapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), emphasizing the increased vulnerability of immunocompromised pediatric patients. The patient was admitted with febrile neutropenia, mucositis, and diarrhea. Blood cultures taken at admission signaled positive after 90 hours, and the isolate was identified as C. jejuni using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed sensitivity to erythromycin, which led to successful treatment and recovery following a 10-day antibiotic course. The case illustrates the pathophysiological role of chemotherapy-induced neutropenia and mucosal barrier damage in facilitating bacterial translocation and systemic infection. It also highlights diagnostic challenges due to the fastidious nature and slow growth of the organism, reinforcing the importance of rapid diagnostic tools and targeted therapy based on susceptibility results. In an era of rising antimicrobial resistance and growing populations of immunocompromised patients, this report underscores the critical need for heightened clinical awareness, robust laboratory support, and preventive public health strategies to mitigate the risk of severe Campylobacter infections in vulnerable groups.