Which infection is the most common cause of acute gastroenteritis?

Acute gastroenteritis is primarily characterized by inflammation of the stomach and intestines, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Campylobacter jejuni is recognized as a leading cause of bacterial gastroenteritis globally. It is often associated with the consumption of undercooked poultry, unpasteurized milk, or contaminated water.

The prevalence of Campylobacter infections can be attributed to its high infectivity and the ability to cause widespread outbreaks. In many epidemiological studies, Campylobacter has consistently been identified as a major contributor to cases of acute gastroenteritis, particularly in developed countries.

While the other organisms listed can also cause gastroenteritis, they tend to be less common overall. Salmonella enterica, for instance, is notably linked to certain outbreaks but does not surpass Campylobacter in general population statistics. Shigella dysenteriae is more associated with dysentery and tends to be less prevalent. Escherichia coli can cause gastroenteritis, especially the pathogenic strains like E. coli O157:H7, but does not account for the majority of cases.

In summary, the recognition of Campylobacter jejuni as the most common cause is supported by a significant body of research indicating its leading