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Long-term infections with Campylobacter fetus subsp. jejuni
Journal of Clinical Microbiology
|May 1, 1981
Summary
Campylobacter fetus subsp. jejuni infections were common in South African schoolchildren, with some experiencing long-term shedding. Distinguishing between reinfection and chronic carriage remains challenging with current methods.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Campylobacter fetus subsp. jejuni is a significant cause of bacterial gastroenteritis worldwide.
- Understanding the transmission dynamics and persistence of C. fetus subsp. jejuni in pediatric populations is crucial for public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and duration of Campylobacter fetus subsp. jejuni infections in rural South African schoolchildren.
- To explore potential differences in infection patterns between age groups.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal study involving five fecal sample collections over 16 months from 73 schoolchildren (aged 6-8 and 13-16 years).
- Microbiological analysis for the detection of fecal pathogens, specifically Campylobacter fetus subsp. jejuni.
Main Results:
- Nine out of 73 children (12.3%) tested positive for Campylobacter fetus subsp. jejuni.
- Six children had intermittent infections lasting at least 9 months, and three had infections exceeding 1 year.
- Long-term infections were more prevalent in younger children (6-8 years; 10.9%) compared to older children (13-16 years; 3.7%).
Conclusions:
- Campylobacter fetus subsp. jejuni can persist in young children for extended periods.
- Current microbiological techniques cannot reliably differentiate between reinfection and chronic carriage of C. fetus subsp. jejuni.