Factors Associated with Sequelae of Campylobacter and Non-typhoidal Salmonella Infections: A Systematic Review

Trivalent outer membrane vesicles-based combination vaccine candidate induces protective immunity against Campylobacter and invasive non-typhoidal Salmonella in adult mice

Campylobacter and invasive non-typhoidal Salmonella (iNTS) are among the most common causative agents of gastroenteritis worldwide. As of now, no single combination licensed vaccine is available for public health use against both iNTS and Campylobacter species. Outer-membrane vesicles (OMVs) are nanoscale proteoliposomes released from the surface of gram-negative bacteria during log phase and harbor a variety of immunogenic proteins. Based on epidemiology of infections, we formulated a novel trivalent outer membrane vesicles (TOMVs)-based vaccine candidate against Campylobacter jejuni (CJ), Salmonella Typhimurium (ST) and Salmonella Enteritidis (SE). Isolated OMVs from CJ, ST and SE were combined in equal ratios for formulation of TOMVs and 5 µg of the developed vaccine candidate was used for intraperitoneal immunization of adult BALB/c mice. Immunization with TOMVs significantly activated both the humoral and cellular arm of adaptive immune response. Robust bactericidal effect was elicited by TOMVs immunized adult mice sera. TOMVs immunization induced long-term protective efficacy against CJ, ST and SE infections in mice. The study illustrates the ability of TOMVs-based combination immunogen in eliciting broad-spectrum protective immunity against prevalent Campylobacter and iNTS pathogens. According to the findings, TOMVs can work as a potent combination-based acellular vaccine candidate for amelioration of Campylobacter and iNTS-mediated gastroenteritis.

Early-life vitamin A treatment rescues neonatal infection-induced durably impaired tolerogenic properties of celiac lymph nodes

Gut-draining mesenteric and celiac lymph nodes (mLNs and celLNs) critically contribute to peripheral tolerance toward food and microbial antigens by supporting the de novo induction of regulatory T cells (Tregs). These tolerogenic properties of mLNs and celLNs are stably imprinted within stromal cells (SCs) by microbial signals and vitamin A (VA), respectively. Here, we report that a single, transient gastrointestinal infection in the neonatal, but not adult, period durably abrogates the efficient Treg-inducing capacity of celLNs by altering the subset composition and gene expression profile of celLNSCs. These cells carry information about the early-life pathogen encounter until adulthood and durably instruct migratory dendritic cells entering the celLN with reduced tolerogenic properties. Mechanistically, transiently reduced VA levels cause long-lasting celLN functional impairment, which can be rescued by early-life treatment with VA. Together, our data highlight the therapeutic potential of VA to prevent sequelae post gastrointestinal infections in infants.

Beyond the acute phase: a comprehensive literature review of long-term sequelae resulting from infectious diseases

Infectious diseases have consistently served as pivotal influences on numerous civilizations, inducing morbidity, mortality, and consequently redirecting the course of history. Their impact extends far beyond the acute phase, characterized by the majority of symptom presentations, to a multitude of adverse events and sequelae that follow viral, parasitic, fungal, or bacterial infections. In this context, myriad sequelae related to various infectious diseases have been identified, spanning short to long-term durations. Although these sequelae are known to affect thousands of individuals individually, a comprehensive evaluation of all potential long-term effects of infectious diseases has yet to be undertaken. We present a comprehensive literature review delineating the primary sequelae attributable to major infectious diseases, categorized by systems, symptoms, and duration. This compilation serves as a crucial resource, illuminating the long-term ramifications of infectious diseases for healthcare professionals worldwide. Moreover, this review highlights the substantial burden that these sequelae impose on global health and economies, a facet often overshadowed by the predominant focus on the acute phase. Patients are frequently discharged following the resolution of the acute phase, with minimal long-term follow-up to comprehend and address potential sequelae. This emphasizes the pressing need for sustained vigilance, thorough patient monitoring, strategic health management, and rigorous research to understand and mitigate the lasting economic and health impacts of infectious diseases more fully.

Detection of multidrug-resistant Campylobacter species from food-producing animals and humans in Nigeria: Public health implications and one health control measures

Antimicrobial-resistant thermophilic Campylobacter species (TCS) pose tremendous public health problems because they are zoonotic, difficult to treat and usually harboured by food-producing animals (FPAs). This study ascertained the phenotypic antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in 56 phenotypically identified TCS from slaughtered cattle, poultry, and humans in Enugu State, Nigeria. The presence of selected AMR and virulence genes harboured by the animal and human isolates were also detected and compared in 36 PCR-confirmed Campylobacter species. All the 56 TCS were multidrug-resistant as none were susceptible to ampicillin, penicillin-G, amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, cephalothin and metronidazole. The isolates were 92.9 %, 62.5 %, 92.9 %, 42.9 %, 26.8 %, 25 %, 28.6 %, 53.7 %, 30.1 %, 32.1 % and 55.4 % resistant to ceftriaxone, nalidixic acid, cefotaxime, enrofloxacin, ciprofloxacin, streptomycin, gentamycin, erythromycin, azithromycin, chloramphenicol and tetracycline, respectively. The top four most effective classes of antimicrobials were aminoglycosides > macrolides > amphenicol > fluoroquinolones. The AMR genes detected and the percentage of the isolates that harboured them were: aadE-1 (33.3 %), aphA-3-1 (36.1 %), tetO (44.4%), Blaoxa-61 (61.1 %) and the multidrug efflux pump, cmeB (86.1%). Virulence genes detected and the corresponding percentage of TCS that harboured them were: cdtB (61.1 %), flaA (47.2 %), ciaB (38.9 %), and pldA (38.9 %). The cmeB was significantly detected in animal isolates (p = 0.018, OR = 5.1, CI = 0.7-6.6) while BlaOXA-61 predominated in human isolates (p = 0.019, OR = 6.2). Likewise, ciaB virulence gene was mostly detected (p = 0.019, OR = 6.4, CI = 1.3-25) in animal isolates. The findings underscore the roles of FPAs in the zoonotic dissemination of Campylobacter-associated AMR and virulence genes in the study area. This warrants the adoption of One Health control strategies to limit spread of the multidrug-resistant zoonotic Campylobacter species.

Current State of Knowledge Regarding WHO High Priority Pathogens-Resistance Mechanisms and Proposed Solutions through Candidates Such as Essential Oils: A Systematic Review

Combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is among the 10 global health issues identified by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2021. While AMR is a naturally occurring process, the inappropriate use of antibiotics in different settings and legislative gaps has led to its rapid progression. As a result, AMR has grown into a serious global menace that impacts not only humans but also animals and, ultimately, the entire environment. Thus, effective prophylactic measures, as well as more potent and non-toxic antimicrobial agents, are pressingly needed. The antimicrobial activity of essential oils (EOs) is supported by consistent research in the field. Although EOs have been used for centuries, they are newcomers when it comes to managing infections in clinical settings; it is mainly because methodological settings are largely non-overlapping and there are insufficient data regarding EOs' in vivo activity and toxicity. This review considers the concept of AMR and its main determinants, the modality by which the issue has been globally addressed and the potential of EOs as alternative or auxiliary therapy. The focus is shifted towards the pathogenesis, mechanism of resistance and activity of several EOs against the six high priority pathogens listed by WHO in 2017, for which new therapeutic solutions are pressingly required.

Molecular Targets in Campylobacter Infections

Human campylobacteriosis results from foodborne infections with Campylobacter bacteria such as Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli, and represents a leading cause of bacterial gastroenteritis worldwide. After consumption of contaminated poultry meat, constituting the major source of pathogenic transfer to humans, infected patients develop abdominal pain and diarrhea. Post-infectious disorders following acute enteritis may occur and affect the nervous system, the joints or the intestines. Immunocompromising comorbidities in infected patients favor bacteremia, leading to vascular inflammation and septicemia. Prevention of human infection is achieved by hygiene measures focusing on the reduction of pathogenic food contamination. Molecular targets for the treatment and prevention of campylobacteriosis include bacterial pathogenicity and virulence factors involved in motility, adhesion, invasion, oxygen detoxification, acid resistance and biofilm formation. This repertoire of intervention measures has recently been completed by drugs dampening the pro-inflammatory immune responses induced by the Campylobacter endotoxin lipo-oligosaccharide. Novel pharmaceutical strategies will combine anti-pathogenic and anti-inflammatory effects to reduce the risk of both anti-microbial resistance and post-infectious sequelae of acute enteritis. Novel strategies and actual trends in the combat of Campylobacter infections are presented in this review, alongside molecular targets applied for prevention and treatment strategies.

Genetic Signature and Serocompatibility Evidence for Drug Resistant Campylobacter jejuni

Campylobacteriosis, a foodborne illness, is one of the world's leading causes of gastrointestinal illness. This study investigates the link between human campylobacteriosis and the consumption of potentially contaminated food with Campylobacter jejuni. Three hundred sixty samples were collected from humans, chicken cloaca, raw chicken meat, unpasteurized milk, and vegetables. The chickens were obtained from licensed and non-licensed slaughterhouses, and only the necks and wings were studied. Samples were enriched under microaerobic conditions then cultured on the modified charcoal cefoperazone deoxycholate agar. Bacteria was identified by staining, biochemical testing, and molecular identification by the polymerase chain reaction for the virulence genes; hipO, asp, dnaJ, cadF, cdtA, cdtB, and cdtC. The genomic homogeneity of C. jejuni between human and chicken isolates was assessed by the serological Penner test and the pulse field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). Campylobacter was not detected in the vegetables and pasteurized milk, though, only twenty isolates from chickens and clinical samples were presumed to be Campylobacter based on their morphology. The biochemical tests confirmed that five isolates were C. coli, and fifteen isolates were C. jejuni including two isolates from humans, and the remaining were from chickens. The colonization of C. jejuni in chickens was significantly lower in necks (6.66%) obtained from licensed slaughterhouses compared to those obtained from non-licensed slaughterhouses (33.3%). The antimicrobial susceptibility test showed that all identified C. jejuni isolates were resistant to antibiotics, and the majority of isolates (53.5%) showed resistance against six antibiotics, though, all isolates were resistant to ciprofloxacin, tetracycline, and aztreonam. The Penner test showed P:21 as the dominant serotype in isolates from humans, necks, and cloaca. The serohomology of C. jejuni from human isolates and chicken necks, wings, and cloaca was 71%, 36%, 78%, respectively. The PFGE analysis of the pattern for DNA fragmentation by the restriction enzyme Smal showed a complete genotypic homology of C. jejuni human isolates and chicken necks compared to partial homology with cloacal isolates. The study brings attention to the need for effective interventions to ensure best practices for safe poultry production for commercial food chain supply to limit infection with foodborne pathogens, including Campylobacter.

Qualitative Evaluation of Causes for Routine Salmonella Monitoring False-Positive Test Results in Dutch Poultry Breeding Flocks

The Salmonella monitoring program, as outlined in the EU Commission regulation 200/2010, asks for repeated sampling in order to ascertain progress in achievement of the EU target. According to Article 2.2.2.2.c of this regulation, the competent authority may decide to do a resample and retest when it has reasons to question the results of initial testing. In the Netherlands, the competent authorities have been resampling and retesting all initial positive samplings for several years because of doubts about false positive initial test results. An analysis of population data in the period 2015–2019 indicates that 48% of initial samplings at the farm were classified as false positive after resampling and retesting by the competent authorities. A qualitative analysis, assessing factors that could be associated with the occurrence of false positives, indicates that cross-contamination during the sampling process by the poultry farmer is probably the most likely source. Cross-contamination of samples during transport from the farm to the laboratory and/or cross-contamination at the laboratory are also considered possible sources. Given the slightly non-optimal system-specificity of the Salmonella monitoring program, there is good reason to make, or consider, standard resampling and retesting of initial positive results by the competent veterinary authorities possible within the EU.

Prevalence and associated factor of Campylobacter species among less than 5-year-old children in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Despite the significant reductions in under-five mortality, campylobacteriosis has emerged as one of the most common causative agents of bacterial foodborne gastroenteritis in humans. We performed this systematic review and meta-analysis to estimate the pooled prevalence of Campylobacter species and associated risk factors among children less than 5 years of age in Ethiopia.

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted on PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, Google Scholar and the Cochrane Library. All identified observational studies reporting the prevalence and determinants of diarrhea among children under 5 years of age in Ethiopia were included. Two authors independently extracted data and analyzed them using STATA Version 13 statistical software. A random-effects model was computed to estimate the pooled prevalence and the associations between determinant factors and campylobacteriosis.

RESULTS

Out of 166 papers reviewed, 8 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of Campylobacter species among children under 5 years of age in Ethiopia was 10% (95% CI: 7, 13). Contact with domestic animals (OR: 3.2, 95% CI: 2.0, 5.1), illiterate mothers (OR: 2.1, 95% CI: 1.1, 3.8), consumption of animal products (OR: 1.7, 95% CI: 0.7, 4.5), and status of mothers' personal hygiene (OR: 1.1, 95% CI: 0.7, 1.8) were significantly associated with the prevalence of Campylobacter species.

CONCLUSION

In our study, Campylobacter species among children under 5 years of age in Ethiopia were significantly high. Contact with domestic animals, illiterate mothers and consumption of animal products were significantly associated with prevalence of Campylobacter species.

Source attributed case-control study of campylobacteriosis in New Zealand

BACKGROUND

Following an initial reduction in human campylobacteriosis in New Zealand after the implementation of poultry food chain-focused interventions during 2006-2008, further decline has been relatively small. We report a year-long study of notified campylobacteriosis cases, incorporating a case control study combined with a source attribution study. The purpose was to generate up-to-date evidence on the relative contributions of different sources of campylobacteriosis in New Zealand.

METHODS

The study approach included: • A case-control study of notified cases (aged six months or more) sampled in a major urban centre (Auckland, every second case) and a mixed urban/rural area (Manawatū/Whanganui, every case), between 12 March 2018 and 11 March 2019. • Source attribution of human campylobacteriosis cases sampled from these two regions over the study period by modelling of multilocus sequence typing data of Campylobacter jejuni and C. coli isolates from faecal samples of notified human cases and relevant sources (poultry, cattle, sheep).

RESULTS

Most cases (84%) were infected with strains attributed to a poultry source, while 14% were attributed to a cattle source. Approximately 90% of urban campylobacteriosis cases were attributed to poultry sources, compared to almost 75% of rural cases. Poultry consumption per se was not identified as a significant risk factor. However specific risk factors related to poultry meat preparation and consumption did result in statistically significantly elevated odds ratios.

CONCLUSIONS

The overall findings combining source attribution and analysis of specific risk factors indicate that poultry meat remains a dominant pathway for exposure and infection.

Acute neonatal Listeria monocytogenes infection causes long-term, organ-specific changes in immune cell subset composition

Listeria monocytogenes (Lm) is a food-borne pathogen with a high chance of infecting neonates, pregnant women, elderly and immunocompromised individuals. Lm infection in neonates can cause neonatal meningitis and sepsis with a high risk of severe neurological and developmental sequelae and high mortality rates. However, whether an acute neonatal Lm infection causes long-term effects on the immune system persisting until adulthood has not been fully elucidated. Here, we established a neonatal Lm infection model and monitored the composition of major immune cell subsets at defined time points post infection (p.i.) in secondary lymphoid organs and the intestine. Twelve weeks p.i., the CD8⁺ T cell population was decreased in colon and mesenteric lymph nodes (mLNs) with an opposing increase in the spleen. In the colon, we observed an accumulation of CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ effector/memory T cells with an increase of T-bet⁺ T helper 1 (Th1) cells. In addition, 12 weeks p.i. an altered composition of innate lymphoid cell (ILC) and dendritic cell (DC) subsets was still observed in colon and mLNs, respectively. Together, these findings highlight organ-specific long-term consequences of an acute neonatal Lm infection on both the adaptive and innate immune system.

Incidence, risk factors, and health service burden of sequelae of campylobacter and non-typhoidal salmonella infections in England, 2000-2015: A retrospective cohort study using linked electronic health records

BACKGROUND

Reactive arthritis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Guillain-Barré syndrome, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn's disease may be sequelae of Campylobacter or non-typhoidal Salmonella (NTS) infections. Proton pump inhibitors (PPI) and antibiotics may increase the risk of gastrointestinal infections (GII); however, their impact on sequelae onset is unclear. We investigated the incidence of sequelae, their association with antibiotics and PPI prescription, and assessed the economic impact on the NHS.

METHODS

Data from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink for patients consulting their GP for Campylobacter or NTS infection, during 2000-2015, were linked to hospital, mortality, and Index of Multiple Deprivation data. We estimated the incidence of sequelae and deaths in the 12 months following GII. We conducted logistic regression modelling for the adjusted association with prescriptions. We compared differences in resource use and costs pre- and post-infection amongst patients with and without sequelae.

FINDINGS

Of 20,471 patients with GII (Campylobacter 17,838), less than 2% (347) developed sequelae, with IBS (268) most common. Amongst Campylobacter patients, those with prescriptions for PPI within 12 months before and cephalosporins within 7-days before/after infection had elevated risk of IBS (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.1, 1.5-2.9) and (aOR 3.6, 1.1-11.7) respectively. Campylobacter sequelae led to ∼ £1.3 million, (£750,000, £1.7 million) in additional annual NHS expenditure.

INTERPRETATION

Sequelae of Campylobacter and NTS infections are rare but associated with increased NHS costs. Prior prescription of PPI may be a modifiable risk factor. Incidence of sequelae, healthcare resource use and costs are essential parameters for future burden of disease studies.

Reactive arthritis and other musculoskeletal symptoms associated with acquisition of diarrhoeagenic Escherichia coli (DEC)

OBJECTIVES

Using a prospective research design, we evaluated the association between acquisition of diarrhoeagenic Escherichia coli (DEC) and development of reactive arthritis (ReA) and other reactive musculoskeletal (MSK) symptoms among international travellers.

METHODS

A total of 526 study participants were asked to provide pretravel and post-travel stool samples and fill in questionnaires (pretravel, post-travel and 3-week follow-up). A multiplex quantitative PCR assay was deployed to detect five DEC comprising enteroaggregative E. coli, enteropathogenic E. coli, enterotoxigenic E. coli, enterohaemorrhagic E. coli and enteroinvasive E. coli and Salmonella, Shigella, Campylobacter, Yersinia, and Vibrio cholerae. Multivariate analysis was employed to identify factors predisposing to MSK symptoms. New post-travel MSK symptoms reported by participants with DEC were assessed by phone interviews and, if needed, clinically confirmed.

RESULTS

From among the total of 224 volunteers who returned all questionnaires and stool specimens, 38 (17.0%) reported MSK symptoms. Multivariate analysis revealed that acquisition of DEC was associated with MSK symptoms (OR 3.9; 95% CI 1.2 to 13.3). Of the 151 with only-DEC, four (2.6%) had ReA, two (1.3%) reactive tendinitis and three (2.0%) reactive arthralgia. ReA was mostly mild, and all patients with ReA were negative for human leucocyte antigen B27. Antibiotic treatment of travellers' diarrhoea did not prevent development of MSK symptoms.

CONCLUSION

A total of 17% of volunteers reported post-travel MSK symptoms. DEC acquisition was associated with an increased risk of developing them, yet the ReA incidence remained low and the clinical picture mild. Antibiotic treatment did not protect against development of MSK symptoms.

Prevalence of Campylobacter and Salmonella in African food animals and meat: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Campylobacter and Salmonella, particularly non-typhoidal Salmonella, are important bacterial enteric pathogens of humans which are often carried asymptomatically in animal reservoirs. Bacterial foodborne infections, including those derived from meat, are associated with illness and death globally but the burden is disproportionately high in Africa. Commercial meat production is increasing and intensifying in many African countries, creating opportunities and threats for food safety.

METHODS

Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, we searched six databases for English language studies published through June 2016, that reported Campylobacter or Salmonella carriage or infection prevalence in food animals and contamination prevalence in food animal products from African countries. A random effects meta-analysis and multivariable logistic regression were used to estimate the species-specific prevalence of Salmonella and Campylobacter and assess relationships between sample type and region and the detection or isolation of either pathogen.

RESULTS

Seventy-three studies reporting Campylobacter and 187 studies reporting Salmonella across 27 African countries were represented. Adjusted prevalence calculations estimate Campylobacter detection in 37.7% (95% CI 31.6-44.3) of 11,828 poultry samples; 24.6% (95% CI 18.0-32.7) of 1975 pig samples; 17.8% (95% CI 12.6-24.5) of 2907 goat samples; 12.6% (95% CI 8.4-18.5) of 2382 sheep samples; and 12.3% (95% CI 9.5-15.8) of 6545 cattle samples. Salmonella were detected in 13.9% (95% CI 11.7-16.4) of 25,430 poultry samples; 13.1% (95% CI 9.3-18.3) of 5467 pig samples; 9.3% (95% CI 7.2-12.1) of 2988 camel samples; 5.3% (95% CI 4.0-6.8) of 72,292 cattle samples; 4.8% (95% CI 3.6-6.3) of 11,335 sheep samples; and 3.4% (95% CI 2.2-5.2) of 4904 goat samples. 'External' samples (e.g. hide, feathers) were significantly more likely to be contaminated by both pathogens than 'gut' (e.g. faeces, cloaca) while meat and organs were significantly less likely to be contaminated than gut samples.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated widespread prevalence of Campylobacter species and Salmonella serovars in African food animals and meat, particularly in samples of poultry and pig origin. Source attribution studies could help ascertain which food animals are contributing to human campylobacteriosis and salmonellosis and direct potential food safety interventions.

Chronic Gastrointestinal and Joint-Related Sequelae Associated with Common Foodborne Illnesses: A Scoping Review

To strengthen the burden estimates for chronic sequelae of foodborne illness, we conducted a scoping review of the current literature for common foodborne pathogens and their associated sequelae. We aim to describe the current literature and gaps in knowledge of chronic sequelae associated with common foodborne illnesses. A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science for peer-reviewed articles published January 1, 2000 to April 1, 2018. Articles available in English, of any epidemiological study design, for 10 common foodborne pathogens (Campylobacter, Salmonella, Escherichia coli, Listeria, Shigella, Cryptosporidium, Cyclospora, Giardia, Yersinia, and norovirus) and their associated gastrointestinal (GI)- and joint-related sequelae were included. Of the 6348 titles screened for inclusion, 380 articles underwent full-text review; of those 380, 129 were included for data extraction. Of the bacterial pathogens included in the search terms, the most commonly reported were Salmonella (n = 104) and Campylobacter (n = 99); E. coli (n = 55), Shigella (n = 49), Yersinia (n = 49), and Listeria (n = 15) all had fewer results. Norovirus was the only virus included in our search, with 28 article that reported mostly GI-related sequelae and reactive arthritis (ReA) reported once. For parasitic diseases, Giardia (n = 26) and Cryptosporidium (n = 18) had the most articles, and no results were found for Cyclospora. The most commonly reported GI outcomes were irritable bowel syndrome (IBS; n = 119) and inflammatory bowel disease (n = 29), and ReA (n = 122) or "joint pain" (n = 19) for joint-related sequelae. Salmonella and Campylobacter were most often associated with a variety of outcomes, with ReA (n = 34 and n = 27) and IBS (n = 17 and n = 20) reported most often. This scoping review shows there are still a relatively small number of studies being conducted to understand specific pathogen/outcome relationships. It also shows where important gaps in the impact of chronic sequelae from common foodborne illnesses still exist and where more focused research would best be implemented.

Epidemiology of thermotolerant Campylobacter infection in poultry in Nsukka agricultural zone, Nigeria

Backgrond and Aim: Thermotolerant Campylobacter organisms (TCOs) are primary causes of bacterial foodborne gastroenteritis worldwide. Although all warm-blooded animals are susceptible to colonization by TCOs, food-producing animals, especially poultry, are major reservoirs of the infection for transmission to humans. This epidemiological study for thermotolerant Campylobacter infection (TCI) in poultry was, therefore, conducted to determine the prevalence and to identify the risk factors of TCI in 60 randomly selected poultry farms in Nsukka agricultural zone. Materials and Methods: A structured questionnaire was used to elicit information on the farmers' involvement in practices that may aggravate TCI in poultry farms. Isolation of TCOs for the determination of prevalence of the infection was done following standard microbiological protocol. Results: The majority (93.3%) of the farms practiced intensive management system. Farm and individual prevalence of TCI were 78.3% and 19.4%, respectively. The prevalence of 15.7% and 23.6% was recorded for birds reared in urban and rural areas, respectively. Similarly, prevalence rates of 17.2%, 25%, 14.7%, and 24.5% were documented for broiler, layer, male, and female birds, respectively. Major risk factors of TCI found were non-sanitization of drinking water, rearing birds of different ages together, thinning, raising other animals alongside poultry, and overstocking. Conclusion: Overall prevalence of 19.4% is high from public health and food safety points of view. Farmers' participation in the risk factors for TCI is massive. Significant improvement in biosecurity practices in poultry farms in the study area is therefore imperative; to limit TCI in poultry and hence the risk of human infection through the food chain or at the poultry-human interface.

The disease burden associated with Campylobacter spp. in Germany, 2014

Bacteria of the genus Campylobacter are an important cause of human illness worldwide. Campylobacter infections are expressed as gastroenteritis and can lead to severe sequelae like reactive arthritis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease. In Germany, Campylobacter-associated gastroenteritis cases are notifiable but there is no reporting obligation for the sequelaes and the disease burden is clearly underestimated. The aim of our study was to quantify reliably the current disease burden of all Campylobacter spp.-associated diseases for Germany with the method of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). DALYs combine mortality and morbidity in a single summary measure, whereby one DALY represents the loss of one year in full health. For acute gastroenteritis, we estimated 967 DALYs of which only 484 DALYs were detected within the reporting system. Overall, we estimated that 8811 DALYs were caused by the campylobacter-related diseases known so far. 98% of the DALYs were associated with morbidity and 2% with mortality. Mortality was caused by the health outcomes Gastroenteritis and Guillain-Barré syndrome exclusively.

Rome Foundation Working Team Report on Post-Infection Irritable Bowel Syndrome

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The existence of postinfection irritable bowel syndrome (PI-IBS) has been substantiated by epidemiology studies conducted in diverse geographic and clinical settings. However, the available evidence has not been well summarized, and there is little guidance for diagnosis and treatment of PI-IBS. The ROME Foundation has produced a working team report to summarize the available evidence on the pathophysiology of PI-IBS and provide guidance for diagnosis and treatment, based on findings reported in the literature and clinical experience.

METHODS

The working team conducted an evidence-based review of publication databases for articles describing the clinical features (diagnosis), pathophysiology (intestinal sensorimotor function, microbiota, immune dysregulation, barrier dysfunction, enteroendocrine pathways, and genetics), and animal models of PI-IBS. We used a Delphi-based consensus system to create guidelines for management of PI-IBS and a developed treatment algorithm based on published findings and experiences of team members.

RESULTS

PI-IBS develops in about 10% of patients with infectious enteritis. Risk factors include female sex, younger age, psychological distress during or before acute gastroenteritis, and severity of the acute episode. The pathogenesis of PI-PBS appears to involve changes in the intestinal microbiome as well as epithelial, serotonergic, and immune system factors. However, these mechanisms are incompletely understood. There are no evidence-based, effective pharmacologic strategies for treatment of PI-IBS. We provide a consensus-based treatment algorithm, based on clinical presentation and potential disease mechanisms.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on a systematic review of the literature and team experience, we summarize the clinical features, pathophysiology (from animal models and human studies), and progression of PI-IBS. Based on these findings, we present an algorithm for diagnosis and treatment of PI-IBS based on team consensus. We also propose areas for future investigation.

Systematic review of factors associated with the development of Guillain-Barré syndrome 2007-2017: what has changed?

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to describe the factors associated with the development of Guillain-Barré syndrome, both infectious and non-infectious, during and after the A(H1N1) influenza pandemic in 2009 and the recent Zika virus epidemic in the Americas.

METHOD

Systematic review of literature on factors associated with the development of the Guillain-Barré syndrome published between 2007 and 2017 listed in EBSCO, MEDLINE and LILACS databases. The quality of the studies was evaluated using the Newcastle Ottawa Scale.

RESULTS

Thirty-four articles met inclusion criteria and were selected for analysis. Their quality was considered good in relation to most of the items evaluated. Many aetiological agents had the results of association with Guillain-Barré syndrome, among them Campylobacter jejuni, influenza vaccine - both pandemic and seasonal vaccines, respiratory infection, gastrointestinal infection among others. The aetiological agents found are, in most part, the same reported prior to the study period. The association with surgeries, chikungunya virus (CHIKV), Zika virus and quadrivalent human papillomavirus vaccine stand out as new aetiological agents in the list of the various possible agents that trigger Guillain-Barré syndrome reported in the study period. There were no Brazilian studies identified during this period.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the review reaffirmed C. jejuni as the major trigger of GBS, whereas the association of influenza vaccines and GBS is less clear; Zika virus infection in association with GBS was found in only one study.

Long-term sequelae of sporadic cryptosporidiosis: a follow-up study

To determine the frequency of occurrence of sequelae following cryptosporidiosis. A follow-up study was performed during a case-control study for sporadic cryptosporidiosis in the Netherlands (2013–2016). Cryptosporidiosis cases were invited to complete a follow-up questionnaire 4 months after diagnosis. Using a case-crossover study design, we compared the frequencies of reported symptoms 4 months after the acute phase to those reported 4 months before the onset of illness and during illness. Frequencies of symptoms in the pre- to post-infection phases were also compared with those of a population control group. Cryptosporidium species-specific effects were also studied. Logistic regression was used to calculate adjusted odds ratios (aOR) for symptoms occurrence. Of the 731 available cases, 443 (60%) responded and 308 (42%) could be included in the follow-up study. The median age was 26 years (range 1–80); 58% were female; 30% were infected with C. hominis and 70% with C. parvum. Compared to before illness, cases were significantly more likely to report dizziness (OR = 2.25), headache (OR = 2.15), fatigue (OR = 2.04), weight loss (OR = 1.82), diarrhoea (OR = 1.50), abdominal pain (OR = 1.38) or joint pain (OR = 1.84). However, symptoms of joint pain and headache occurred among cases after illness at a rate that was not significantly different from that observed in the general population. There were no significant differences in post-infection symptom occurrence between C. hominis and C. parvum. The disease burden of cryptosporidiosis extends beyond the acute phase of the infection, with cases reporting both intestinal and extra-intestinal symptoms up to 4 months following infection.

Comparison of genomes and proteomes of four whole genome-sequenced Campylobacter jejuni from different phylogenetic backgrounds

Whole genome sequencing (WGS) has been used to assess the phylogenetic relationships, virulence and metabolic differences, and the relationship between gene carriage and host or niche differentiation among populations of C. jejuni isolates. We previously characterized the presence and expression of CJIE4 prophage proteins in four C. jejuni isolates using WGS and comparative proteomics analysis, but the isolates were not assessed further. In this study we compare the closed, finished genome sequences of these isolates to the total proteome. Genomes of the four isolates differ in phage content and location, plasmid content, capsular polysaccharide biosynthesis loci, a type VI secretion system, orientation of the ~92 kb invertible element, and allelic differences. Proteins with 99% sequence identity can be differentiated using isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ) comparative proteomic methods. GO enrichment analysis and the type of artefacts produced in comparative proteomic analysis depend on whether proteins are encoded in only one isolate or common to all isolates, whether different isolates have different alleles of the proteins analyzed, whether conserved and variable regions are both present in the protein group analyzed, and on how the analysis is done. Several proteins encoded by genes with very high levels of sequence identity in all four isolates exhibited preferentially higher protein expression in only one of the four isolates, suggesting differential regulation among the isolates. It is possible to analyze comparative protein expression in more distantly related isolates in the context of WGS data, though the results are more complex to interpret than when isolates are clonal or very closely related. Comparative proteomic analysis produced log₂ fold expression data suggestive of regulatory differences among isolates, indicating that it may be useful as a hypothesis generation exercise to identify regulated proteins and regulatory pathways for more detailed analysis.

Burden of salmonellosis, campylobacteriosis and listeriosis: a time series analysis, Belgium, 2012 to 2020

Salmonellosis, campylobacteriosis and listeriosis are food-borne diseases. We estimated and forecasted the number of cases of these three diseases in Belgium from 2012 to 2020, and calculated the corresponding number of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). The salmonellosis time series was fitted with a Bai and Perron two-breakpoint model, while a dynamic linear model was used for campylobacteriosis and a Poisson autoregressive model for listeriosis. The average monthly number of cases of salmonellosis was 264 (standard deviation (SD): 86) in 2012 and predicted to be 212 (SD: 87) in 2020; campylobacteriosis case numbers were 633 (SD: 81) and 1,081 (SD: 311); listeriosis case numbers were 5 (SD: 2) in 2012 and 6 (SD: 3) in 2014. After applying correction factors, the estimated DALYs for salmonellosis were 102 (95% uncertainty interval (UI): 8-376) in 2012 and predicted to be 82 (95% UI: 6-310) in 2020; campylobacteriosis DALYs were 1,019 (95% UI: 137-3,181) and 1,736 (95% UI: 178-5,874); listeriosis DALYs were 208 (95% UI: 192-226) in 2012 and 252 (95% UI: 200-307) in 2014. New actions are needed to reduce the risk of food-borne infection with Campylobacter spp. because campylobacteriosis incidence may almost double through 2020.