What is the main transmission route for campylobacter infections?

The main transmission route for Campylobacter infections is foodborne, particularly through contaminated poultry. Campylobacter species, such as Campylobacter jejuni, are often found in the intestines of healthy birds, especially poultry. When these birds are processed and handled improperly, the bacteria can contaminate meat products. Eating undercooked poultry or foods that have come into contact with contaminated raw poultry is a common way for humans to become infected.

In addition to poultry, unpasteurized milk and contaminated water can also be sources of Campylobacter. However, poultry remains the predominant source due to the widespread nature of poultry farming and the ease of contamination during processing and preparation.

While the fecal-oral route does play a role in the transmission of many gastrointestinal infections, in the context of Campylobacter, foodborne transmission is significantly more prevalent. Direct contact and aerosol droplets are not major transmission routes for Campylobacter infections, making them less relevant in this context. Therefore, foodborne transmission, especially relating to poultry, is the most significant pathway for infections caused by this bacterium.