The main reservoirs for Campylobacter jejuni are wild birds and poultry, although this bacterium can also affect other animals and pet birds. The most commonly affected pet birds are psittaciforms (parrots) and passeriforms (finches and canaries).
The organism colonizes the small intestine and colon of birds and can be spread to humans through contact with feces or carcasses of infected animals.
The most important mode of transmission to humans is through handling or consuming chicken, milk, or other products contaminated with feces of carrier animals. However, in up to 24% of cases, the source of infection is unknown.
Human infection with C jejuni most commonly leads to an acute, self-limited gastrointestinal illness characterized by fever, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. The diarrhea is typically watery or bloody and occurs 8 to 10 times a day at peak illness. Fever can persist for up to a week. Most cases resolve within 7 days, but some patients may have a relapsing diarrheal illness lasting several weeks.
Diagnosis: Stool culture
Treatment if needed with Zithromax, Clarithromycin and erythromycin
