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Campylobacter enteritis among children in north-west Ethiopia: a 1-year prospective study
Insights
Campylobacter enteritis is a significant cause of childhood diarrhea in Ethiopia. This study found high rates in young children, especially those with persistent diarrhea or malnutrition.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Campylobacter enteritis is a common cause of diarrheal illness in children worldwide.
- Data on the incidence and risk factors of campylobacter enteritis in Ethiopia are limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of campylobacter enteritis in children attending a teaching hospital in northwest Ethiopia.
- To identify risk factors associated with campylobacter infection in this population.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study was conducted over 12 months (June 1994-May 1995).
- Stool samples from 434 children were analyzed for Campylobacter spp. using culture.
- Data on age, symptoms, and nutritional status were collected.
Main Results:
- Campylobacter spp. were isolated from 13.8% (60/434) of children.
- The highest isolation rate was observed in children aged 6-24 months.
- Peak isolation occurred from September to November.
- Campylobacter was more frequent in children with persistent diarrhea (OR 2.53) and in malnourished children.
Conclusions:
- Campylobacter is an important cause of childhood diarrheal illness in northwest Ethiopia.
- Young children, particularly those with persistent diarrhea and malnutrition, are at higher risk.
- Further public health interventions are needed to address this pathogen.
Abstract:
The incidence of campylobacter enteritis among children visiting the outpatient department of a teaching hospital in north-west Ethiopia was prospectively studied over a period of 12 months from June 1994 to May 1995. Campylobacter spp. were isolated from the stools of 60 children out of 434 investigated by culture (13.8%). The highest isolation rate was found in children aged from 6 to 24 months. The period of peak isolation was September to November. Among children aged 1-5 years, campylobacter was more frequently isolated from those presenting with persistent diarrhoea than from among those with acute illness (OR 2.53; 95% CI: 1.02-6.18). Culture positivity was higher among malnourished children. Our findings demonstrate the important role played by this pathogen in childhood diarrhoeal illness in the area.