Campylobacter in the Middle East

The present study aimed to review the previous findings of studies on campylobacteriosis in the Middle East region. Acute gastroenteritis is caused by Campylobacter species known as widespread infectious diseases with worldwide disbursement. There are various reports on the incidence of Campylobacter in the Middle East indicating the infection rates of 1-14%. Campylobacter jejuni (C. jejuni) and C. coli are the main responsible campylobacteriosis for intestinal diseases. The occurrence of human campylobacteriosis is sporadic, transmission from a person to another person is too rare and the incidence is usually higher in warm seasons and tropical environments. The presence of Campylobacter species as normal flora in stool and its contamination in poultry meat and eggs can lead to infections. Lowering the number of Campylobacter in animal carcass can greatly decrease the risk of infection in consumers. Due to the high Campylobacter spp. antibiotic resistance, the governments are required to devise controlling programs. People in the Middle East should buy meat from stores that are under sanitary monitoring.