Review on the scenario of Campylobacter in Malaysia

Campylobacter is a major zoonotic pathogen, primarily associated with foodborne illnesses worldwide and a leading cause of bacterial gastroenteritis in humans. Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli are the most commonly associated species. The epidemiology of Campylobacter infections is multifactorial, with transmission occurring primarily through the consumption of undercooked poultry, contaminated water, or unpasteurized dairy products. In Malaysia, the current scenario of Campylobacter prevalence remains a concern, with increasing reports of clinical cases of gastroenteritis attributed to this pathogen. Recent studies indicate a notable prevalence of Campylobacter in food commodities, particularly in poultry products, which are frequently contaminated. Additionally, Campylobacter is commonly found in various animal reservoirs, including poultry, cattle, and livestock, further contributing to its widespread occurrence in food products. The rising antibiotic resistance patterns in Campylobacter, especially to fluoroquinolones and macrolides, complicate treatment options and pose a public health threat. This resistance is primarily linked to the over and miss use of antibiotics in clinical setting, animal husbandry, highlighting the need for stringent surveillance and regulation of antimicrobial use. Detection methods for Campylobacter include traditional culturing techniques, molecular methods such as PCR, and immunological assays, each with distinct advantages and limitations. Campylobacter is known to thrive under specific conditions, and improper handling, storage, and cooking practices exacerbate the risk of contamination in food products. Effective prevention and control measures are critical to reducing Campylobacter prevalence, including good manufacturing practices, proper food handling, cooking, and pasteurization techniques, alongside public health initiatives focused on hygiene education. Future perspectives in the management of Campylobacter infections involve the development of novel detection methods, improved vaccine strategies for livestock, and enhanced global surveillance systems to monitor the evolution of resistance patterns. Collaborative efforts between government agencies, food industry stakeholders, and public health organizations are essential to curb the burden of Campylobacter infections and reduce associated health risks in Malaysia and beyond.