Campylobacter, a type of bacteria, is one of the leading causes of foodborne illness worldwide. In Africa, it’s particularly common, especially among children, contributing to diarrhea and other health issues. A recent study focused on Campylobacter species (C. jejuni and C. coli) in East Africa reveals a significant problem: these bacteria are not only widespread in both humans and chickens, but they’re also becoming increasingly resistant to antibiotics.
Where Does It Come From?
The study found that poultry is a major source of Campylobacter infections. In Tanzania, the consumption of chicken meat was identified as a key risk factor for spreading the bacteria. Researchers took samples from chicken farms and human patients suffering from diarrhea in Tanzania and Kenya, discovering that the bacteria can pass from chickens to people, raising concerns about food safety.
Why Is This Important?
Campylobacter infections can cause severe diarrhea, especially in children, and may contribute to other long-term health issues like stunted growth. But the situation becomes more dangerous when the bacteria are resistant to antibiotics, the medicines we rely on to treat infections. Alarmingly, the study found that over 75% of the bacterial samples from both humans and poultry were resistant to at least one type of antibiotic. Worse still, nearly half of the bacteria from chickens were resistant to multiple antibiotics.
The Role of Antibiotic Use
One of the major reasons for this rise in antibiotic-resistant bacteria is the widespread use of antibiotics in both farming and human medicine. Farmers often use antibiotics to keep their livestock healthy, but overuse can lead to bacteria becoming resistant. Similarly, antibiotics are frequently and sometimes inappropriately used in human medicine, contributing to the problem.
What Can Be Done?
The study suggests that better monitoring and control measures are needed to prevent the spread of Campylobacter, especially in low-income countries where food safety systems are less developed. Improved biosecurity on farms, such as better hygiene practices and controlled use of antibiotics, could help reduce the risk of transmission between animals and humans. Additionally, more research is needed to understand how the bacteria are spreading and to develop new strategies to combat antibiotic resistance.
Conclusion
Campylobacter bacteria pose a significant threat to public health in East Africa, especially due to their growing resistance to antibiotics. By improving farming practices and better regulating antibiotic use, the spread of this harmful bacteria can be reduced, protecting both animals and humans from dangerous infections.
Infectious Diseases, Public Health & Prevention, Microbiology