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Background: The species most frequently causing campylobacteriosis are Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli, followed by Campylobacter fetus, Campylobacter upsaliensis, and Campylobacter lari. Although polymerase chain reaction (PCR) can be used to detect Campylobacter DNA in stool samples, PCR assays are often validated for C. jejuni and C. coli only, and coproculture results can take several days to receive. For laboratories that do not have access to PCR technology, rapid antigen tests can be of the utmost importance for early diagnosis of the disease. We evaluated the performance of the Sofia Campylobacter Fluorescence Immunoassay (SCFIA) for rapid detection of Campylobacter antigens in stool. Methods: In total, 94 frozen and 205 fresh stool specimens were included in retrospective and prospective evaluations, respectively. The linearity of the assay and its limit of detection for different Campylobacter species was evaluated using serial dilutions. Cross reactivity to phylogenetically related species was also investigated. The PCR results from the BD MAX Enteric Panel were considered the gold standard. Results: The sensitivity of the SCFIA was 97.87% and 96.88% in retrospective and prospective evaluations, respectively. The specificity was 98.84%. The assay exhibited high linearity in serial dilutions for C. coli, C. jejuni, C. armoricus, C. ornithocola, C. lari, and C. upsaliensis, with correlation coefficients of 0.991–0.999, whereas C. fetus was not detected. No cross-reactivity was detected for Aliarcobacter butzleri, Helicobacter cinaedi, or Helicobacter pullorum. The minimum concentration for a positive result at the assay-specific cut-off was 4–17 million CFU/mL. The limit of detection ranged from 106 to 107 CFU/mL. Conclusion: SCFIA results are highly correlated with PCR results, with no cross-reactivity with phylogenetically related species. The linear correlation between fluorescence and CFU/mL results was strong. The assay's ability to detect antigens of various Campylobacter species can aid early diagnosis. However, the inability to detect C. fetus must be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diarrheal disease is a global public health threat. Cases of enteric disease caused by bacterial enteropathogens result in a significant health burden and can lead to antimicrobial resistance patterns that increase and evolve over time and geography, posing serious health challenges for local populations as well as civilian travelers and military personnel deployed to endemic regions. This review describes the prevalence of the most common bacterial agents of diarrheal disease in South America, as well as the distribution patterns of antibiotic resistance and predominant strains that are present in the region. Furthermore, the development of relevant prevention and treatment strategies are described, and United States Naval Medical Research Unit SOUTH disease surveillance and enteric disease research efforts in this regional context are highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Thermophilic Campylobacter species are important causes of human gastroenteritis and inappropriate use of antimicrobials has led to the emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). In Rwanda, data is limited on the prevalence and AMR carriage rate of Campylobacter strains. This study aimed at assessing the prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of Campylobacter species among isolates obtained from different clinical settings in Kigali city, Rwanda. Methods: This cross-sectional study used a purposive sampling method to collect 385 stool samples from consenting patients attending the Microbiology Department at Kigali University Teaching Hospital (CHUK), Nyarugenge District Hospital, Muhima and Biryogo Health Centers (HC). Campylobacter species were isolated using culture and characterized with biochemical tests and multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) for species confirmation. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) with six antimicrobials [ciprofloxacin (CIP), tetracycline (TET), chloramphenicol (CHL), streptomycin (STR), erythromycin (ERY), and gentamicin (GEN)] was carried out by using Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion. Results: The overall prevalence of Campylobacter spp. was 7.0% (27/385) and the highest prevalence of 77.8% (21/27) was recorded at Biryogo HC. The prevalence of C. jejuni and C. coli were 92.6% (25/27) and 7.4% (2/27), respectively. Infection was significantly associated with diarrhea (p < 0.0001). Campylobacter isolates showed high resistance to STR (85.2%, 23/27), followed by ERY (66.7%, 18/27), and CIP (37.1%, 10/27). The isolates were sensitive to CHL at 88.9% (24/27), TET at 66.7% (18/27), and GEN at 66.7% (18/27). Conclusion: The prevalence of campylobacteriosis in Kigali City is not negligible and is associated with diarrhea. Campylobacter strains isolated from clinical settings were resistant to commonly used antimicrobials. Larger studies will provide insights into the national status of Campylobacter-related AMR. Routine monitoring of antimicrobial use is recommended to mitigate this public health threat. Molecular analyses of resistant strains are warranted to characterize the genomic drive of antibiotic resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to describe the epidemiology, clinical presentation, and management of Campylobacter sp. and Salmonella sp. infections in a tertiary hospital in Northern Portugal (2010–2020) and identify factors associated with reporting, invasive disease, and hospitalization. A retrospective review included patients with Campylobacter sp. (2015–2020) or Salmonella sp. infections (2010–2020). Reported cases were cross-referenced with the National Epidemiological Surveillance System. A total of 742 patients were included: 342 with Campylobacter sp., 392 with non-typhoidal Salmonella (NTS), and 15 with typhoidal Salmonella (TS). Immunosuppression was present in 16.7% of cases. NTS infections were invasive in 21.4% of cases, compared to 4.0% for Campylobacter. Macrolide resistance in Campylobacter reached 10%, particularly in C. coli, while multidrug resistance (MDR) was observed in 37.8% of NTS isolates. Immunocompromised patients accounted for over 70% of relapses in Campylobacter disease. Reporting rates were low: 32.8% for NTS, 30.6% for Campylobacter, and 14.3% for TS. Reporting was associated with male sex, no immunosuppression, hospitalization, and non-MDR organisms. In conclusion, immunocompromised patients face higher risks of invasive and relapsing disease. High rates of MDR in NTS limit treatment options. Underreporting remains significant, underscoring the need for improved awareness and reporting to inform public health strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Consumer demand for pasture raised, antibiotic‐free poultry products has led to an increase in pastured poultry operations within the United States. Given the level of environmental interaction and the potential increase in exposure to foodborne pathogens in these settings, a greater understanding of the prevalence and diversity of Campylobacter populations inherent within pastured poultry flocks is needed. Methods: To achieve this, 40 pastured poultry flocks from nine farms were sampled using a farm‐to‐fork strategy, and Campylobacter was isolated and characterised from preharvest (faeces, soil) through postharvest (caeca, whole carcass rinse) to the final product the consumer would purchase (whole carcass rinse). Results: Campylobacter was isolated from 872 of 1820 samples, showing an overall prevalence of 47.91%. The caeca showed the highest (p < 0.05) Campylobacter load (4.64 log10 CFU/mL) and prevalence (95.5%), while the final product whole carcass rinses had the lowest (p < 0.05) Campylobacter load (0.32 log10 CFU/mL) and prevalence (15.45%), suggesting that the Campylobacter load in the caeca may not be indicative of the Campylobacter load on the final product. Of the 872 positive samples, 337 Campylobacter isolates were selected for further characterisation. Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli comprised 74.18% (250/337) and 21.95% (74/337) of the selected isolates respectively. While the Campylobacter isolates displayed resistance to several antibiotics, the most common resistance for both C. jejuni and C. coli was against tetracycline (55.86% and 70.31% respectively). Multidrug resistance phenotypes (≥ 3 antibiotic classes) were relatively low for both C. jejuni (2.80%) and C. coli (9.45%). Conclusions: Campylobacter load, prevalence and diversity were more affected by farm location than by the type of sample from which the Campylobacter was isolated. Overall, these results indicated a need for farm‐specific Campylobacter mitigation strategies to ensure the safety of these increasingly in‐demand poultry products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The world has changed forever as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Antimicrobial resistance is a primary global health concern that places a significant financial and health burden on nations. Patients with Campylobacter-caused infections were the subject of the retrospective investigation. The data show that children aged 1–6 are the most commonly affected by Campylobacter enteritis. Resistance levels fluctuated over the course of the two periods. Nine isolates were sensitive to macrolides, and only one was responsive to tetracycline, which indicated inadequate sensitivity across all classes throughout the pandemic. This pattern raises serious concerns about the potential impact on public health. Tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones rank highest in terms of bacterial resistance. Regardless of the species, macrolides remain a practical and sufficient treatment for Campylobacter enteritis. Reassurance is still provided by much lower numbers in the post-pandemic period. There is no evidence to support the alarming claims made in the international literature about macrolides in Romania. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rotation of the bacterial flagellum, the first identified biological rotary machine, is driven by its stator units. Knowledge gained about the function of stator units has increasingly led to studies of rotary complexes in different cellular pathways. Here, we report that a tetrameric PilZ family protein, FlgX, is a structural component underneath the stator units in the flagellar motor of Campylobacter jejuni. FlgX forms a stable tetramer that does not bind cyclic di-GMP (c-di-GMP), unlike other canonical PilZ domain-containing proteins. Cryoelectron tomography and subtomogram averaging of flagellar motors in situ provide evidence that FlgX interacts with each stator unit and plays a critical role in stator ring assembly and stability. Furthermore, FlgX is conserved and was most likely present in the common ancestor of the phylum Campylobacterota. Overall, FlgX represents a divergence in function for PilZ superfamily proteins as well as a player in the key stator-rotor interaction of complex flagellar motors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1.During transport of broilers from farms to slaughterhouses, the interior of crates may become contaminated with faeces. When these crates are not cleaned and disinfected adequately, they pose a potential risk for the dissemination of pathogens, including Campylobacter spp., between slaughterhouses and farms.2. The aim of the trial was to compare the efficacy of immersion-based crate washing systems with a spray-based washing system in reducing Campylobacter spp. Therefore, the crate washing systems in two slaughterhouses were sampled. In one of these two slaughterhouses, the immersion-based crate washing system was replaced by a new spray-based system which was sampled. Samples were collected from the slaughterhouse equipment, the crate washing system as well as from the crates both before and after cleaning and disinfection (C&D). All samples were screened for the presence of Campylobacter spp.; water and crate samples were used for enumeration. Molecular typing was performed to investigate the source and routes of contamination.3. In all cases, crates were contaminated with Campylobacter spp. prior to washing. However, only the spray-based system achieved a significant reduction after C&D Molecular typing revealed that the same strains were present on the crates after C&D as before cleaning. Additionally, crates could become contaminated by previously cleaned crates via wash water in the immersion-based crate washing system [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Foodborne pathogens such as Salmonella spp.and Campylobacter spp. pose significant threats to the safety of broiler meat worldwide. However, data on their prevalence in retail chicken meat in Saudi Arabia are scarce. This context mainly concerns the vast poultry market in Saudi Arabia, which may double by 2030. The overall objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and antibiotic resistance of Salmonella spp. and Campylobacter spp. in retail chickens from small, medium-sized, and large production companies in Saudi Arabia. Of the 212 chicken samples tested, Salmonella was detected in 9.3% of samples, all identified as Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis. Campylobacter was more prevalent, found in 35.8% of samples, with Campylobacter jejuni accounting for 26.4% and Campylobacter coli for 9.3%. Pathogen prevalence was higher in small-scale than in medium-sized and large producers. Salmonella Enteritidis isolates were resistant to nalidixic acid (90%), amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, and tetracycline (70%). Most Campylobacter coli isolates (90%) exhibited resistance to erythromycin, clindamycin, and gentamicin, followed by tetracycline (80%). Campylobacter jejuni isolates showed high resistance to erythromycin, clindamycin, tetracycline, azithromycin, and nalidixic acid (75–92%). Multidrug resistance (MDR) was observed in all Campylobacter jejuni isolates, 90% of Campylobacter coli isolates, and 70% of Salmonella isolates. These findings underscore the urgent need for adherence to food safety guidelines, particularly in small-scale poultry farms. The pervasive presence of MDR Salmonella spp. and Campylobacter spp. in broiler meat calls for enhanced surveillance, stricter enforcement of food safety practices, and public health initiatives to mitigate the risk of foodborne diseases in Saudi Arabia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim of the study: The association of GBS and meningitis in a pediatric population is infrequent. Given the limited number of reported cases from pediatric patients and considering that treatment guidelines are predominantly based on data gathered from adult patients; this is an opportunity to pay attention to different perspectives.Materials and methods: We present a case of a pediatric patient with a positive SARS-CoV2 test and acute meningitis followed by Campylobacter jejuni associated Guillain-Barré Syndrome.Results: To our knowledge, this is the first case of a pediatric patient presenting with the combination Guillain-Barré Syndrome following acute meningitis in the setting of a SARS-CoV2 infection.Conclusions: This case highlights the importance of recognizing vague and non-specific symptoms in pediatric patients, such as gait unsteadiness. Improving awareness of uncommon associations improves treatment and patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Campylobacter is one of the leading bacterial causes of gastroenteritis worldwide. It frequently contaminates poultry and other raw meat products, which are the primary sources of Campylobacter infections in humans. Plasmids, known as important mobile genetic elements, often carry genes for antibiotic resistance, virulence, and self-mobilization. They serve as the main vectors for transferring genetic material and spreading resistance and virulence among bacteria. In this study, we identified 34 new plasmids from 43 C. jejuni and C. coli strains isolated from retail meat using long-read and short-read genome sequencing. Pangenomic analysis of the plasmid assemblies and reference plasmids from GenBank revealed five distinct groups, namely, pTet, pVir, mega plasmids (>80 kb), mid plasmids (~30 kb), and small plasmids (<6 kb). Pangenomic analysis identified the core and accessory genes in each group, indicating a high degree of genetic similarity within groups and substantial diversity between the groups. The pTet plasmids were linked to tetracycline resistance phenotypes in host strains. The mega plasmids carry multiple genes (e.g., aph(3')-III, type IV and VI secretion systems, and type II toxin–antitoxin systems) important for plasmid mobilization, virulence, antibiotic resistance, and the persistence of Campylobacter. Together, the identification and comprehensive genetic characterization of new plasmids from Campylobacter food isolates contributes to understanding the mechanisms of gene transfer, particularly the spread of genetic determinants of virulence and antibiotic resistance in this important pathogen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Campylobacter are the most common cause of food poisoning, which manifests itself in diarrhoea of varying severity. Additionally, because of the increasing number of people with immune deficiencies, more frequent serious complications of Campylobacter infections are being observed. The main source of infection is the consumption of contaminated poultry meat, which is a consequence of the insufficiency of current hygiene and biosecurity to control Campylobacter or eliminate it from the poultry food chain.

The resistance-nodulation-cell division (RND) superfamily of multidrug efflux systems are important players in mediating antibiotic resistance in gram-negative pathogens. Campylobacter jejuni, a major enteric pathogen, utilizes an RND-type transporter system, CmeABC, as the primary mechanism for extrusion of various antibiotics. Recently, a functionally potent variant of CmeABC (named RE-CmeABC) emerged in clinical Campylobacter isolates, conferring enhanced resistance to multiple antibiotic classes. Despite the clinical importance of RE-CmeABC, the molecular mechanisms for its functional gain and its evolutionary trajectory remain unknown. Here, we demonstrated that amino acid substitutions in RE-CmeB (inner membrane transporter), but not in RE-CmeA (periplasmic protein) and RE-CmeC (outer membrane protein), in conjunction with a nucleotide mutation in the promoter region of the efflux operon, are responsible for the functional gain of the multidrug efflux system. We also showed that RE-cmeABC is emerging globally and distributed in genetically diverse C. jejuni strains, suggesting its possible spread by horizontal gene transfer. Notably, many of RE-cmeABC harboring isolates were associated with the human host including strains from large disease outbreaks, indicating the clinical relevance and significance of RE-CmeABC. Evolutionary analysis indicated that RE-cmeB likely originated from Campylobacter coli, but its expansion mainly occurred in C. jejuni, possibly driven by antibiotic selection pressure. Additionally, RE-cmeB, but not RE-cmeA and RE-cmeC, experienced a selective sweep and was progressing to be fixed during evolution. Together, these results identify a mutation-based mechanism for functional gain in RE-CmeABC and reveal the key role of RE-CmeB in facilitating Campylobacter adaptation to antibiotic selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Campylobacter species are zoonotic pathogens, and are considered to be the major foodborne pathogen that causes outbreaks and sporadic gastrointestinal illnesses both in developed and developing countries. In this study, the molecular typing and antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli isolates from patients and raw meat between 2021 and 2022 in Huzhou were analyzed by using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), multilocus sequence typing (MLST) and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Methods: From September 1, 2021 to December 31, 2022, a total of 342 fecal specimens from diarrheal patients at a sentinel hospital in Huzhou and 168 samples of raw meat products collected from farmers' markets and supermarkets, were subjected to Campylobacter isolation and identification. The agar dilution method was used to determine resistance of the Campylobacter isolates to eleven antibiotics. In addition, pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) and multilocus sequence typing (MLST) were performed to compare their genetic relationships. Results: 78 Campylobacter isolates were recovered, comprising 58 isolates (74.36%, 58/78) of Campylobacter jejuni (34 patient isolates and 16 food isolates) and 20 isolates (25.64%, 20/78) of Campylobacter coli (6 patient isolates and 14 food isolates). Campylobacter has emerged as a predominant foodborne pathogen in the local region, with detection rate reached 11.70% among 342 diarrhea samples. The Campylobacter isolation rate in 168 raw meat was 22.62% (38/168), all originating from poultry meat, with chicken been the major source of infection (86.84%, 33/38). Both PGFE type and MLST data confirmed that Campylobacter stains circulating in Huzhou are genetically diverse, with Campylobacter jejuni isolates being more diverse than Campylobacter Coli. PFGE typing revealed 45 band patterns among 54 Campylobacter jejuni strains and 17 band patterns among 19 Campylobacter Coli strains. 50 Campylobacter jejuni strains from different sources were classified into 37 ST types, showing a dispersed distribution and encompassing over 12 clonal complexes (CCs), with CC-21 being the most prevalent CC (22.00%, 11/50). The distribution of ST types in the 18 Campylobacter Coli strains was relatively concentrated, with 83.33% (15/18) of isolates belonging to the CC-828. In this study, 2 groups of Campylobacter jejuni strains (PFGE J2-ST464 and PFGE J9-ST-2328) originated from humans and chickens showed high genetic homologies by comparing PFGE and MLST results. Besides, some disagreement between PFGE and MLST was observed for certain ST, indicating a weak correlation between PFGE and MLST for certain Campylobacter strains. Most of the Campylobacter isolates were highly resistant to nalidixic-acid, ciprofloxacin and tetracycline. The multiple antibiotic resistance of Campylobacter Coli (89.47%) is higher than Campylobacter jejuni (29.63%). Conclusion: Campylobacter is an important foodborne pathogen in both diarrheal patients and raw meat products in Huzhou City, exhibiting multiple antibiotic resistance and high level of genetic diversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poultry bio-mapping helps identify microbial contamination and process optimization opportunities such as sanitary dressing procedures, equipment adjustments, cross-contamination controls, and chemical intervention applications in commercial poultry processing operations. This study focuses on the development of a preliminary microbiological baseline of microbial indicators, including total viable counts (TVC), Enterobacteriaceae (EB), and the quantification and detection of pathogens such as Salmonella and Campylobacter spp. in four commercial broiler processing facilities in Honduras. Whole chicken and wing rinses were collected from four poultry processing plants at different locations: live receiving, rehanger, post-evisceration, post-chiller, and wings. The MicroSnap® system was used for the enumeration of microbial indicators, the BAX®-System-SalQuant® was used for the quantification of Salmonella, and the BAX®-System-CampyQuant™ was used for Campylobacter spp. Negative samples after enumeration were tested with BAX®-System Salmonella and BAX®-System Campylobacter for prevalence analysis, respectively. The TVC and EB counts were continuously reduced from the live receiving to the post-chiller location, presenting a statistically significant increase (p < 0.01) at the wings location. The Salmonella counts were significantly different between stages (p < 0.01). The prevalence of Salmonella was highest in the live receiving stage, with 92.50%, while that at the post-chiller stage was the lowest, at 15.38%. Campylobacter spp. counts were lower than that at the other stages at wings 1.61 Log CFU/sample; however, Campylobacter spp.'s prevalence was higher than 62.5% in all stages. Microbial bio-mapping using novel technologies suitable for mobile applications was conducted in this study to establish statistical process control parameters for microorganisms. A nationwide microbial baseline for commercial broiler processing facilities in Honduras was developed. In-country data serve as a benchmark for continuous improvement at each facility evaluated and can assist regulatory officers in the development of risk-based performance standards aimed at reducing the risk of exposure to consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Campylobacter is one of the most reported causes of bacterial gastroenteritis worldwide. Birds are the predominant reservoirs for thermotolerant Campylobacter, therefore consumption of contaminated and undercooked poultry products represents one of the major transmission routes for campylobacteriosis. In addition to foodborne diseases, another relevant public challenge is the silent pandemic of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), impacting also the food chain. The occurrence of antimicrobial‐resistant Campylobacter in broiler meat poses a significant threat to public health. In this context, quantitative microbiological risk assessment (QMRA) might support policy‐makers in addressing these challenges. Hence, this project aimed to describe the current status of knowledge on occurrence of AMR Campylobacter at a global scale, with focus in estimating the prevalence of fluoroquinolone‐resistant Campylobacter isolated from broiler meat at retail level. Following the drafting of a dedicated protocol, a systematic literature review and meta‐analysis were conducted. Based on the extracted data, after the determination of the proportion of AMR isolates, the proportions were compared by Campylobacter species, geographical regions, processing step and sampling matrices. Meta‐analysis allowed the estimation of the pooled prevalences of resistant isolates by regions and species, combining the findings from different independent studies in a comparable way. In terms of future perspectives, the outcome of this project will support future risk assessment and provide valuable inputs for estimating consumer exposure to AMR Campylobacter via broiler meat consumption. In conclusion, this report will provide a general overview of activities, preliminary results and research performed during the EU‐FORA fellowship programme (2023/2024). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This report by the European Food Safety Authority and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control presents the results of zoonoses monitoring and surveillance activities carried out in 2023 in 27 Member States (MSs), the United Kingdom (Northern Ireland) and 10 non‐MSs. Key statistics on zoonoses and zoonotic agents in humans, food, animals and feed are provided and interpreted historically. In 2023, the first and second most reported zoonoses in humans were campylobacteriosis and salmonellosis, respectively. For both agents, an increase in the absolute number of cases was observed in comparison with 2022. Fifteen MSs and the United Kingdom (Northern Ireland) reached all the established targets in poultry populations with regard to the reduction in Salmonella prevalence for the relevant serovars. Salmonella samples from carcases of various animal species, and samples for Campylobacter quantification from broiler carcases, were more frequently positive when performed by the competent authorities than when own‐checks were conducted. Shiga toxin‐producing Escherichia coli (STEC) was the third most reported zoonotic agent in humans, followed by Yersinia enterocolitica and Listeria monocytogenes. L. monocytogenes and West Nile virus infections were the most severe zoonotic diseases, with the highest percentage of hospitalisations among cases and the highest case fatality rates. Twenty‐seven MSs and the United Kingdom (Northern Ireland) reported a slight decrease in food‐borne outbreaks in 2023 overall in comparison with 2022, although the overall number of reported human cases and hospitalisations increased. Salmonella Enteritidis remained the most frequently reported causative agent for reported cases and food‐borne outbreaks. Salmonella in 'eggs and egg products' was the agent/food pair of most concern. In 2023 this combination caused the largest number of outbreaks and cases among all agent/food combination and ranked second in number of hospitalisations. Salmonella was also the causative agent associated with the majority of multi‐country outbreaks reported in the EU in 2023. This report also provides updates on brucellosis, echinococcosis, Q fever, rabies, toxoplasmosis, trichinellosis, tuberculosis due to Mycobacterium bovis or M. caprae, and tularaemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Awareness about laying hen welfare has led to the phase-out of conventional battery cages in favor of the adoption of alternative housing systems for egg production in many countries. However, the greater freedom of movement for animals and the presence of manure and litter (sawdust, straw, feathers, etc.) on the floor in some alternative housing systems may be suitable conditions for dusts, bacteria, and fungi to be aerosolized, raising concerns about indoor air quality and respiratory health of workers. The present project aimed at assessing and comparing indoor air quality and bioaerosols in conventional and alternative houses for laying hens. Six were conventional houses (with battery cages), six were enriched colonies, and six were aviary (multi-level cage-free houses) visited in Eastern Canada from 2020–2022. Higher airborne concentrations of particulate matter (PM) from all size fractions (PM1, PM2.5, PM4, PM10, and total dust), culturable bacteria, total endotoxins, and Clostridium perfringens were found in aviaries compared to houses for laying hens in conventional and enriched colonies. Total endotoxin and Clostridium perfringens concentrations were higher in enriched colonies than in conventional laying-hen housing systems. Campylobacter coli, Campylobacter jejuni, and Salmonella sp. were detected in few hen houses. This study highlights possible markers for indoor air quality evaluation inside laying hen houses. These airborne contaminants could be targeted by mitigation strategies to improve indoor air quality in alternative housing systems for laying hens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Most human infections with non‐typhoid Salmonella (NTS) or Campylobacter are zoonotic in nature and acquired though consumption of contaminated food of mainly animal origin. However, individuals may also acquire salmonellosis or campylobacteriosis through non‐foodborne transmission pathways, such as those mediated by the environment. This emphasizes the need to consider both direct and indirect exposure to livestock sources as a possible transmission route for NTS and Campylobacter. Therefore, this study aimed at assessing whether salmonellosis and campylobacteriosis incidence is spatially associated with exposure to livestock (i.e. small ruminants, dairy cows, veal calves, laying hens, broiler chickens and pigs) in the Netherlands for the years 2007–2019 and 2014–2019 respectively. Methods and Results: Risk factors (population‐weighted number of animals) and their population attributable fractions were determined using a Poisson regression model with a log‐link function fitted using integrated nested Laplace approximation. The analyses were performed for different hexagonal sizes (90, 50, 25 and 10 km2) and accounted for geographical coverage of the diagnostic laboratory catchment areas. Moreover, serological data were used to look into the possible effects of acquired immunity due to repeated exposure to the pathogen through the environment that would potentially hinder the analyses based on the incidence of reported cases. A linear mixed‐effects model was then fitted where the postal code areas were included as a random effect. Livestock was not consistently significantly associated with acquiring salmonellosis or campylobacteriosis in the Netherlands. Conclusions: Results showed that living in livestock‐rich areas in the Netherlands is not a consistently significant, spatially restricted risk factor for acquiring salmonellosis or campylobacteriosis, thereby supporting current knowledge that human infections with Salmonella and Campylobacter are mainly foodborne. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Campylobacter fetus is a zoonotic pathogen. Although the precise virulence mechanisms have not yet been fully elucidated, cytolethal distending toxin (CDT) is considered as one of the well-characterized virulence factors in Campylobacter. In silico analysis of the genome of C. fetus type strain ATCC27374T indicates that there are three cdt gene clusters, Cfcdt-I, Cfcdt-II and Cfcdt-III. However, it is not clear whether these clusters are ubiquitously present in C. fetus and their association with diseases in humans and animals. In this study, we have analyzed the distribution and nucleotide sequences of these cdt gene clusters in 137 C. fetus strains isolated from human patients and healthy cattle. MLST and PFGE were also applied to determine clonal relationship between C. fetus strains isolated from patients and cattle. We found all C. fetus strains carry three Cfcdt gene clusters by colony hybridization assay and the strains belonged to 38 different pulsotypes. Whole genome sequencing of 38 C. fetus strains was carried out to determine the entire cdt gene cluster sequences and their sequence type (ST). Among 38 strains, six STs were identified, and each cdt gene cluster showed high similarity (>99%). Interestingly, some of these Cfcdt genes are more similar to the cdt genes of other Campylobacter species than other Cfcdt gene types. Altogether, the results suggest that three Cfcdt gene clusters are highly conserved in C. fetus and the strains belonging to ST-6 may be more pathogenic to human. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Campylobacter jejuni (CJ) is the etiological agent of the world's most common intestinal infectious food-borne disease, ranging from mild symptoms to fatal outcomes. The development of innovative synbiotics that inhibit the adhesion and reproduction of multidrug-resistant (MDR) CJ in animals and humans, thereby preserving intestinal homeostasis, is relevant. We have created a synbiotic based on the consortium of Lactobacillus crispatus 2029 (LC2029), Ligilactobacillus salivarius 7247 (LS7247), and a mannan-rich prebiotic (Actigen®). The purpose of this work was to study the in vitro anti-adhesive and antagonistic activities of the created synbiotic against MDR CJ strains, along with its role in preventing intestinal barrier dysfunction, which disrupts intestinal homeostasis. Methods: A complex of microbiological, immunological, and molecular biological methods was used. The ability of the LC2029 and LS7247 consortium to promote intestinal homeostasis in vitro was assessed by the effectiveness of controlling CJ-induced TLR4 activation, secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines, development of intestinal barrier dysfunction, and production of intestinal alkaline phosphatase (IAP). Results: All MDR CJ strains showed marked adhesion to human Caco-2, pig IPEC-J2, chicken CPCE, and bovine BPCE enterocytes. For the first time, we found that the prebiotic and cell-free culture supernatant (CFS) from the consortium of LC2029 and LS7247 strains exhibit an additive effect in inhibiting the adhesion of MDR strains of CJ to human and animal enterocytes. CFS from the LC2029 and LS7247 consortium increased the permeability of the outer and inner membranes of CJ cells, which led to extracellular leakage of ATP and provided access to the peptidoglycan of the pathogen for the peptidoglycan-degrading bacteriocins nisin and enterolysin A produced by LS7247. The LC2029 and LS7247 consortium showed a bactericidal effect on CJ strains. Co-cultivation of the consortium with CJ strains resulted in a decrease in the viability of the pathogen by 6 log. CFS from the LC2029 and LS7247 consortium prevented the growth of CJ-induced TLR4 mRNA expression in enterocytes. The LC2029 and LS7247 consortium inhibited a CJ-induced increase in IL-8 and TNF-α production in enterocytes, prevented CJ-induced intestinal barrier dysfunction, maintained the transepithelial electrical resistance of the enterocyte monolayers, and prevented an increase in intestinal paracellular permeability and zonulin secretion. CFS from the consortium stimulated IAP mRNA expression in enterocytes. The LC2029 and LS7247 consortium and the prebiotic Actigen represent a new synergistic synbiotic with anti-CJ properties that prevents intestinal barrier dysfunction and preserves intestinal homeostasis. Conclusions: These data highlight the potential of using a synergistic synbiotic as a preventive strategy for creating feed additives and functional nutrition products based on it to combat the prevalence of campylobacteriosis caused by MDR strains in animals and humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Campylobacteriosis is a leading cause of infectious diarrhea and foodborne illness worldwide. Campylobacter infection is primarily transmitted through the consumption of contaminated food, especially uncooked meat, or untreated water; contact with infected animals or contaminated environments; poultry is the primary reservoir and source of human transmission. The clinical spectrum of Campylobacter jejuni/coli infection can be classified into two distinct categories: gastrointestinal and extraintestinal manifestations. Late complications are reactive arthritis, Guillain–Barré syndrome, and Miller Fisher syndrome. In the pediatric population, the 0–4 age group has the highest incidence of campylobacteriosis. Regarding the use of specific antimicrobial therapy, international guidelines agree in recommending it for severe intestinal infections. Host factors, including malnutrition, immunodeficiency, and malignancy, can also influence the decision to treat. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified antibiotic resistance in Campylobacter as a 'significant public health threat' due to increasing resistance to FQs or macrolides. Although numerous vaccines have been proposed in recent years to reduce the intestinal colonization of poultry, none have shown sufficient efficacy to provide a definitive solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Swift identification and diagnosis of gastrointestinal infections are crucial for prompt treatment, prevention of complications, and reduction of the risk of hospital transmission. The radiological appearance on computed tomography could potentially provide important clues to the etiology of gastrointestinal infections. We aimed to describe features based on computed tomography of patients diagnosed with Campylobacter, Salmonella or Shigella infections in South Sweden. Methods: This was a retrospective observational population-based cohort study conducted between 2019 and 2022 in Skane, southern Sweden, a region populated by 1.4 million people. Using data from the Department of Clinical Microbiology combined with data from the Department of Radiology, we identified all patients who underwent computed tomography of the abdomen CTA two days before and up to seven days after sampling due to the suspicion of Campylobacter, Salmonella or Shigella during the study period. Results: A total of 215 CTA s scans performed on 213 patients during the study period were included in the study. The median age of included patients was 45 years (range 11-86 years), and 54% (114/213) of the patients were women. Of the 215 CTA s, 80% (n = 172) had been performed due to Campylobacter and 20% (n = 43) due to Salmonella enteritis. CTA was not performed for any individual diagnosed with Shigella during the study period. There were no statistically significant differences in the radiological presentation of Campylobacter and Salmonella infections. Conclusion: The most common location of Campylobacter and Salmonella infections was the cecum, followed by the ascending colon. Enteric wall edema, contrast loading of the affected mucosa, and enteric fat stranding are typical features of both infections. The CTA characteristics of Campylobacter and Salmonella are similar, and cannot be used to reliably differentiate between different infectious etiologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to estimate the prevalence of potentially diarrhoeagenic microbes (PDMs) in faecal samples from asymptomatic individuals in a high‐income country, identify risk factors for carriage and to identify microbial factors that differ between PDMs in asymptomatic versus symptomatic individuals. Samples from 1000 asymptomatic participants were collected, together with a questionnaire, between 2015 and 2020 and examined by PCR for 11 PDMs. Isolates were characterised and potential risk factors were registered. Atypical enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (aEPEC), Yersinia enterocolitica, Shiga toxin‐producing E. coli (STEC), enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) and Campylobacter spp. were found in 163 (16%), 20 (2.0%), 17 (1.7%), 12 (1.2%) and 11 (1.1%) asymptomatic individuals, respectively. Other PDMs were rare. Only low virulent STEC, with stx1c, stx2b or stx2f, was detected. Travels outside Europe was a significant risk factor for detecting Campylobacter spp. (odds ratio (OR) 6.99; 95% CI 1.12–43.6) and ETEC (OR 11.4; 95% CI 1.26–102). Individuals ≥65 years of age had lower odds of carrying STEC (OR 0.11; 95% CI 0.02–0.57) or EPEC (OR 0.09; 95% CI 0.05–0.16) than individuals ≤5 years of age. The common finding of PDMs in asymptomatic individuals could have implications for the interpretation of positive findings in clinical samples and infection control measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous investigations have explored the involvement of wolves in parasitic and viral diseases, but data on the zoonotic bacteria are limited. The aim of this study was to assess the occurrence of bacterial zoonotic agents in 16 wolf (Canis lupus italicus) fecal samples collected in a protected area in Central Italy. Campylobacter spp., Salmonella spp., Yersinia spp., Listeria monocytogenes, and Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli (STEC) were investigated by culture, while polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was employed to detect Coxiella burnetii, Mycobacterium spp., Brucella spp., and Francisella tularensis. The presence of Extended Spectrum β-Lactamase (ESBL)- and carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae was also evaluated, using selective isolation media and detection of antimicrobial resistance genes. All samples were negative for Campylobacter spp., Salmonella spp., C. burnetii, Mycobacterium spp., Brucella spp., F. tularensis, and carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae. One sample tested positive for Yersinia aldovae and three for Yersinia enterocolitica BT1A. One L. monocytogenes (serogroup IIa) and one STEC, carrying the stx1 gene, were isolated. Two ESBL isolates were detected: one Serratia fonticola, carrying blaFONA-3/6 gene, and one Escherichia coli, carrying blaCTX-M-1 gene. Both ESBL isolates were resistant to different antimicrobials and therefore classified as multi-drug-resistant. Our data suggest that wolves are potential carriers of zoonotic bacteria and may contribute to the environmental contamination through their feces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The consumption of organic food has increased in recent years. In organic rearing animals are exposed to outdoor conditions, which may increase their risk of infection from various pathogens. In the present study the occurrence of the most significant foodborne pathogenic bacteria in organic meat and ready-to-eat organic meat products was assessed. Out of 100 raw organic meat samples tested, 72 were contaminated with bacterial pathogens. The highest percentage of contaminated samples was observed in poultry meat (92.5%) followed by pork meat (66.7%). Furthermore, 50.0% of beef origin samples were positive for the bacteria tested. L. monocytogenes was found in 39.0% of samples, S. aureus was identified in 37.0%, Campylobacter in 20.0%, Salmonella in 8.0% and Shigatoxin-producing E. coli in 4.0% of raw meat samples. In 31.0% of samples a co-occurrence of two (83.9%) or three (16.1%) pathogens was observed. Among 100 samples of organic meat products tested, only L. monocytogenes was found in 5.0% of samples. The result of the present study indicated that organic food may be a source of harmful microorganisms that may pose foodborne infections to consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New technologies for more effective microbiological assays are being adopted by the food industry to intervene more rapidly in its production chain. The aim of this study was to evaluate the alternative methods of TEMPO® CAM and real-time PCR (rtPCR) Biotecon® in comparison with the ISO 10272-2:2017 reference method for Campylobacter spp. quantification in turkey meat, aiming to validate a quick and easily replicable method in these meat matrices. A total of 416 samples were analyzed over a one-year period. The TEMPO® methodology showed inadequate performance with a significant difference (p < 0.05) compared with the reference methodology; therefore, its use was not recommended for turkey meat matrices. However, the performance of the rtPCR Biotecon® methodology showed adequate performance with no significant difference (p > 0.05), and its use was recommended in turkey meat matrices. The study was limited to exclusive research in turkey meat matrices, and expansion of the research into other matrices is recommended to verify whether the behavior of alternative methodologies is similar. The findings of this study illustrate the necessity for a thorough and comprehensive evaluation during the implementation of alternative methodologies that may potentially supplant conventional approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Issues associated with proton pump inhibitor (PPI) usage have been documented. PPIs affect the gastrointestinal microbiome, as well as the saliva microbiota of healthy individuals. However, the alterations in the saliva microbiota of laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) patients remain unclear. This study aims to examine the composition of saliva microbiota in LPR patients before and after PPI usage through a self-controlled study. Methods: Thirty-two adult LPR patients participated in the study. Saliva samples were collected before and after an 8-week regimen of twice-daily administration of 20-mg esomeprazole. The impact of PPI administration on bacterial communities was assessed using 16 S rRNA gene sequencing. The functional and metabolic changes in saliva microbial communities after PPI usage were analyzed using PICRUSt2 based on our 16 S rRNA gene sequencing results. Results: The alpha diversity within the salivary microbiota, as measured by the PD-whole-tree index, exhibited a significant difference between samples collected before and after PPI application (P = 0.038). Additionally, PCoA analysis of unweighted UniFrac distances (beta diversity) revealed distinct separation of saliva sample microbiota structures before and after PPI application in LPR patients, with statistical significance (Adonis test, R2 = 0.063, P< 0.010). Taxon-based analysis indicated that PPI administration increased the abundance of Epsilonproteobacteria, Campylobacterales, Campylobacteraceae, Campylobacter, and Campylobacter_gracilis, while reducing the abundance of Lactobacillaceae and Lactobacillus in salivary samples (P< 0.050). Using LEfSe to compare bacterial abundances, Bacillaceae and Anoxybacillus were found to be enriched before PPI usage in LPR patients. Furthermore, the proportion of genes responsible for indole alkaloid biosynthesis in the salivary microbiota of LPR patients significantly increased after PPI therapy (P< 0.050). Conclusions: These findings indicate that PPIs induce alterations in the salivary microbiota of LPR patients. Chinese clinical trial registry: No. ChiCTR2300067507. Registered on January 10,2023 retrospectively. Level of evidence: 4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The poultry industry is facing challenges from multiple drug-resistant pathogens such as Cam‐ pylobacter, Salmonella, Escherichia coli, and Clostridium perfringens. Excessive use of antibiotics disrupts the balance of the normal microbial community in the intestines, leading to dysbiosis, immune suppression, and secondary infections. Bacteriophages are viruses that can specifically infect and kill bacteria. The use of bacteriophage preparations to control bacterial diseases in poultry is of great significance for ensuring poultry health and improving farming efficiency. Therefore, this review focuses on the current applications of bacteriophages against poultry pathogens, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the potential of bacteriophages in poultry farming and to serve as an important reference for future research and applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The epidemiology of Campylobacter species in wild birds is still poorly understood. This study describes the occurrence and genetic diversity of Campylobacter in adult and nestlings of yellow‐legged gulls, highlighting differences between breeding locations. The gulls were captured in Croatia between 2021 and 2023. A cloacal swab was taken from each individual and tested for the presence of Campylobacter. Isolated Campylobacter species were genotyped using the multilocus sequence typing (MLST) method. A total of 1071 gulls were captured and sampled, of which 152 samples were identified as Campylobacter species, with Campylobacter jejuni (9.90%) being the most frequently isolated bacterium, followed by Campylobacter lari (3.36%) and Campylobacter coli (0.93%). Complete sequence type (ST) profiles were generated for 141 isolates: 100 C. jejuni, 33 C. lari, and 8 C. coli. A significant difference in the occurrence of positive Campylobacter species was found depending on the sampling sites, while both sampling site and age were significant for the occurrence of C. jejuni. Adults and nestlings showed high genetic diversity for C. jejuni and C. lari, and there were no significant differences between strains isolated from adults and nestlings or between sites, suggesting a high genotype flow in the studied gull population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]