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Campylobacter infections: the emerging national pattern

R V Tauxe, D A Pegues, N Hargrett-Bean

    American Journal of Public Health
    |September 1, 1987
    PubMed

    Insights

    In 1984, Campylobacter infections affected 4.9 per 100,000 people in the US, primarily infants and young adults. A mysterious November surge suggests a widespread, common source of this bacterial infection.

    Area of Science:

    • Epidemiology
    • Infectious Diseases
    • Microbiology

    Background:

    • Campylobacter infections are a significant public health concern in the United States.
    • Understanding the epidemiology of Campylobacter jejuni is crucial for effective control strategies.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To analyze the incidence and demographic patterns of Campylobacter infections in the US during 1984.
    • To identify potential sources and contributing factors for a notable increase in infections.

    Main Methods:

    • Analysis of national surveillance data for Campylobacter isolates and outbreaks reported in 1984.
    • Calculation of age-specific incidence rates.
    • Examination of temporal trends, including seasonal variations.

    Main Results:

    • A total of 8,837 Campylobacter isolates and 8 outbreaks were reported, yielding a national isolation rate of 4.9/100,000.
    • Campylobacter jejuni accounted for 99% of isolates.
    • Highest incidence rates were observed in infants (11/100,000) and young adults (8/100,000), with the highest risk in infants aged 2 months.
    • An unexplained nationwide peak in November occurred across all age groups.

    Conclusions:

    • Campylobacter infections disproportionately affect infants and young adults.
    • The uniform November surge suggests a common, nationwide source impacting all demographics.
    • Further investigation is warranted to identify the source of the November increase in Campylobacter infections.

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