Campylobacter is a bacteria (type of germ). Someone with a Campylobacter (kam-pih-lo-BAK-tur) infection might have diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and cramps. With rest and plenty of fluids, most people feel better within a week.
Campylobacter infections usually happen because someone ate or drank something contaminated with the feces (poop) from an infected animal. This can happen when they:
A person also can get infected if they touch poop with the bacteria in it and then get it in their mouth. This can happen from swimming in or drinking contaminated water or by touching an infected pet or farm animal.
It is not common for someone to get a Campylobacter infection from another person. But coming into close contact with someone else’s poop (for example, when changing diapers) can lead to an infection.
Kids with Campylobacter infections have diarrhea (sometimes with blood in it), fever, and belly pain. Rarely, an infection can lead to seizures, blood infection (called bacteremia), arthritis, and other medical problems.
If a child has diarrhea, especially bloody diarrhea, doctors can do a stool test to check for Campylobacter bacteria. Sometimes they also order blood tests to check for bacteremia.
Kids with a Campylobacter infection should drink lots of fluids so that they don’t get dehydrated. They should also rest as needed. Don’t give anti-diarrhea medicines as some can make the diarrhea worse.
Doctors may prescribe antibiotics for young children or babies, children with a weak immune system, or kids who have severe or long-lasting diarrhea.
Some precautions can help prevent Campylobacter infections. Be sure to:
Because Campylobacter bacteria can be on food and in water:
When caring for someone who has diarrhea, wash your hands well and often, especially before touching other people and before eating or preparing food. Clean toilets after the person with diarrhea uses them. Also, if a pet dog or cat has diarrhea, wash your hands often and check with the veterinarian about treatment.
Call your doctor if your child:
You know your child best. Call the doctor if your child has any other signs that concern you.
Reviewed by: Amy W. Anzilotti, MD
Date Reviewed: Nov 2, 2022