Campylobacter Infection: Over 100 Die Every Year from a Little Known Food Poisoning Infection
Campylobacter jejuni is by far the most common cause of bacterial foodborne illness in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control, an estimated 2.4 million persons become infected and approximately 125 people die every year as a result of Campylobacter infection.
How does one catch a Campylobacter Infection?
The most common source for Campylobacter infection is chicken contaminated with animal feces. Any raw poultry may contain the Campylobacter, including organic and “free-range” products. The most common reasons for such contamination is improperly handled food; chicken that is not cleaned properly, is left out at room temperature for an extended period, or is under-cooked; and cross-contamination of raw chicken juices with other foods. Several studies have shown that as many as 88 percent of chicken carcasses are contaminated with Campylobacter, but because of proper food handling, infections are usually isolated events, and widespread outbreaks are rare.
In most cases, those infected with Campylobacter will suffer little more than an upset stomach. But some symptoms can be more serious. The symptoms most commonly associated with Campylobacter food poisoning include diarrhea (which can sometimes be bloody), abdominal pain and cramps, fever, nausea and vomiting. These symptoms will usually show up within two to five days after infection and will disappear within a week.
Other complications associated with Campylobacter Infection
In some cases, however, Campylobacter food poisoning can lead to several other, more serious complications, such as Guillan-Barré Syndrome, which can lead to temporary paralysis. Occasionally, an infection can lead to reactive arthritis, and inflammation of the joints, eyes, or reproductive or urinary organs. In some cases, Campylobacter infection can lead to appendicitis or infections to specific parts of the body, including the abdominal cavity, the heart, the central nervous system, the gall bladder, the urinary tract, or the bloodstream. Such cases, though rare, can lead to large medical bills and lost time from work.
Talk to an Experienced Attorney
If you suspect you or a loved one may have contracted Campylobacter food poisoning, seek medical attention immediately. If you believe contaminated food led to food poisoning, you may be entitled to compensation for your illness. The Texas Food Poisoning Injury Attorney at Hill Law Firm has experience taking on some of the largest companies in the United States in food borne illnesses cases. If you or a loved one has been injured or killed by food contamination, please call the Hill Law Firm immediately. It is important to move quickly to preserve evidence and your rights.