| | What is Campylobacter?
Campylobacter is a microorganism (bacteria) often carried by domestic animals, including poultry. These bacteria can cause illness in humans, usually a severe diarrhea that lasts for several days. Symptoms start on average two to five days after being exposed to the bacteria. Often, more than 50% of birds in poultry flocks carry Campylobacter bacteria in their feces.
Are poultry farm workers in Alberta at risk for Campylobacter infection?
Yes; poultry farm workers often come into contact with the fecal material of the birds they handle, and are at risk for Campylobacter infection. This risk is illustrated in the following report of an actual outbreak investigated by Aspen Regional Health. In May 2005, a poultry farmer in central Alberta hired a group of approximately twenty temporary workers to assist in loading chickens onto transport trucks. Within three days, three of the temporary workers were ill with bloody diarrhea; one of the workers was admitted to hospital. Tests revealed that all three workers were infected with Campylobacter. It was learned that some of the workers did not wear gloves while on duty and/or did not wash their hands prior to eating a snack or smoking cigarettes after handling chickens.
How can poultry farm workers reduce their risk of Campylobacter infection?
Workers should assume that all birds in every poultry flock carry Campylobacter bacteria. Reducing the risk involves “common sense” precautions (summarized below) that help prevent poultry fecal material from getting into the mouth of the poultry worker:
- Wear durable gloves at all times while working.
- Remove gloves and wash hands thoroughly with soap and water and dry with paper towel before: taking a break, eating, drinking, smoking.
- Shower and change clothes at the end of the work day. Do not take work clothes home if possible, or, bag work clothing and place in the washing machine upon returning home.
- Consider wearing a mask. Masks with higher fluid resistance offer the best protection.
This is not a comprehensive list of recommended poultry worker safety measures. However, following these precautions can help reduce the risk of Campylobacter infection.
Author: Lance Honish, Capital Health-Public Health Division Phone: (780) 413-7923 |
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