15251 Campylobacter Infection
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Campylobacter is a type of bacteria that can infect your gut. It usually causes diarrhea, stomach cramps, and fever. It is one of the most common causes of food poisoning around the world.
Key facts
- Most people catch it by eating undercooked chicken or other contaminated food.
- It usually starts 2 to 5 days after exposure and lasts about a week.
- You can pass it to other people through poor hand hygiene.
Yes. Campylobacter is one of the most common causes of diarrhea in the UK and many other countries.
Anyone can get it, but it is most common in young children, young adults, and older adults. People with weakened immune systems may have more severe symptoms.
Symptoms
- Call your local emergency number (such as 999 or 911) immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.
- Dizziness, confusion, or feeling faint
- Passing very little or no urine
- Stools that are mostly blood
- Inability to keep any fluids down
- Signs of severe dehydration, such as sunken eyes or a fast heartbeat
- ⚠Diarrhea lasting more than 2 days
- ⚠Signs of dehydration that are not improving
- ⚠Vomiting that stops you from drinking
- ⚠You have a weakened immune system or a long-term illness
- ⚠You are pregnant or caring for a young child
Common symptoms
- Watery or sometimes bloody diarrhea
- Stomach cramps and abdominal pain
- Fever
- Nausea and vomiting
- Feeling generally unwell, tired, and achy
Symptoms in children
- Same symptoms as adults, but children become dehydrated more quickly
- Fewer wet nappies or less urine than usual
- Dry mouth and tongue
- Irritability and lack of energy
Symptoms in older adults
- More severe diarrhea that can lead to dehydration quickly
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Confusion or weakness
- May need hospital care if fluid loss is severe
Causes
Main causes
- Eating undercooked meat, especially chicken
- Drinking unpasteurized milk or untreated water
- Contact with infected animals, including farm animals and pets
- Eating food contaminated by raw meat juices or poor hygiene
Risk factors
- Handling raw poultry without washing hands properly
- Traveling to places with poor sanitation
- Taking medicines that reduce stomach acid (which can increase risk)
- Having a weakened immune system
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- If you see blood in your stools
- If you have signs of dehydration, like dizziness or dark urine
- If you are unable to keep fluids down for more than a day
- If your child is under 6 months and has any of these symptoms
Book a routine appointment if:
- If diarrhea lasts longer than 3 days
- If you have a high fever
- If you have recently traveled to another country
- If you are pregnant or have a medical condition
Diagnosis
A doctor will ask about your symptoms, what you have eaten lately, and if you have traveled. They may sometimes ask for a stool sample to confirm the bacteria.
Tests that may be done
- Stool (poo) sample to test for Campylobacter
- Blood tests, but only if you are severely ill or dehydrated
What to expect at your appointment
Your doctor will examine you and may arrange for a stool test. Results usually take a few days. In the meantime, keep drinking fluids and rest.
Treatment
Most people recover on their own without antibiotics. The main treatment is to replace lost fluids and salts to prevent dehydration.
Self-care at home
- Drink plenty of water or oral rehydration solution in small sips throughout the day
- Rest and stay at home until symptoms improve
- Eat plain, easy-to-digest foods like toast, rice, and bananas as appetite returns
- Avoid dairy, caffeine, and very rich or spicy food when your stomach is sensitive
Medical treatments
If your symptoms are severe or you have a higher risk of complications, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. Do not buy over-the-counter diarrhea medicines without asking a healthcare professional, as some can make the infection worse.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery is almost never needed for Campylobacter infection. Very rarely, complications such as a tear in the bowel wall require hospital treatment and surgery.
Living with this condition
While you are ill, stay home and avoid contact with other people as much as possible. Wash your hands thoroughly after using the bathroom and before touching food.
Lifestyle tips
- Do not prepare meals for others until you have been free of diarrhea for at least 48 hours
- Clean bathroom surfaces, taps, and toilets regularly
- Use your own towel and personal items until you recover
Diet and exercise
Let your stomach settle first. Start with clear fluids, then add bland foods. Once you feel better, slowly return to your normal eating pattern and gentle exercise. Talk to your doctor if you feel weak or tired for a long time.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Having diarrhea and feeling unwell can make you feel stressed or upset, especially if symptoms last longer than expected. This is understandable. Talk to your doctor or someone you trust if you need support. If you have thoughts of harming yourself, contact your local crisis helpline or go to the nearest emergency department.
Prevention
Yes. Good food hygiene is the best way to prevent Campylobacter infection. Always cook poultry thoroughly, wash hands after touching raw meat, keep raw meat away from other foods, and drink pasteurized milk.
Vaccines
There is no vaccine available for Campylobacter infection.
Screening programmes
There is no routine screening test for Campylobacter infection. Testing is done only if you have symptoms.
Complications
If left untreated
- Dehydration, which can be dangerous in children and older adults
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which causes ongoing bloating, cramps, and diarrhea
- Reactive arthritis, which causes joint pain and swelling after infection
- Guillain-Barré syndrome, a rare nerve condition that causes weakness
Long-term outlook
The outlook is very good. Most people feel better within a week without any treatment. Severe complications are rare, and healthcare providers can offer treatments to help you recover. Taking care with fluids and hygiene helps you heal and protects others.
Find support
International organisations
Local organisations
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Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Related conditions
Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 31, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.