A new study has identified poultry as the leading source of human Campylobacter infections in the United States, and there are major concerns about rising antibiotic resistance.
Researchers from the Ineos Oxford Institute for Antimbiotic Research, using machine learning techniques and US national surveillance data, found that 68 percent of Campylobacter cases between 2009 and 2019 came from infected poultry. The findings have been published in the Journal of Infection.
Campylobacter causes infections in the intestines of birds and mammals, often transmitted through undercooked meat or contaminated food. The study highlights growing concerns about the increase in antibiotic resistance among bacteria found in the food chain, especially in poultry, the most commonly consumed meat in the US.
Using machine learning for resource allocation
The study used genomic data from 8,856 human Campylobacter infection samples and compared them to 16,703 genomes from potential animal sources, including poultry, livestock, wild birds and pork. The study used advanced machine learning techniques to identify genetic markers in the bacteria, allowing researchers to trace the likely origins of the infections.
The study found that poultry was the main source of Campylobacter infections, accounting for 68 percent of cases. Cattle made the next largest contribution at 28 percent, while wild birds and pork played a much smaller role, contributing 3 percent and 1 percent of infections respectively.
Ben Pascoe, a research fellow at the Ineos Oxford Institute (IOI), highlighted the importance of collaboration on data sharing.
“The study uses data collected by multiple US public health agencies. By sharing data and expertise, we have been able to conduct the largest study of this kind and provide invaluable data on the source of human infections,” said Pascoe.
Antimicrobial resistance is increasing
One of the key concerns raised by the research is the increasing prevalence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Campylobacter, especially among poultry strains. During the study period, researchers observed a noticeable increase in AMR genes, especially among bacteria derived from chicken sources. This poses a significant threat to public health, as infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria are more difficult to treat and can lead to more serious health consequences.
Professor Samuel Sheppard, who led the research at IOI, warned of the urgent need to tackle this problem within the poultry industry.
“We have shown that poultry is not only a significant reservoir of Campylobacter infections, but that AMR is increasing in livestock, especially poultry. To protect ourselves and our antibiotics, the poultry industry must urgently work to reduce the spread of infections among poultry,” Sheppard said.
Consequences for food safety and public health
The study’s findings will have a significant impact on public health and food safety policy. Because poultry is a major contributor to Campylobacter infections in humans, the research suggests that targeted interventions in the poultry industry may be one of the most effective ways to reduce the incidence of campylobacteriosis and combat the spread of antimicrobial resistance.
Campylobacter infections are among the most common bacterial foodborne illnesses in the US, causing symptoms such as diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps. In some cases, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems, the infection can lead to serious complications and hospitalization. The emergence of antibiotic resistance further exacerbates these risks.
As policymakers and industry leaders work to improve food safety standards, the study underscores the need for better surveillance, better hygiene practices in food production and reducing antibiotic use in agriculture to help protect public health.
The full investigation can be found here.
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