Current Status of Campylobacter Food Poisoning in Japan

High-throughput microfluidic quantitative PCR system for the simultaneous detection of antibiotic resistance genes and bacterial and viral pathogens in wastewater

Comprehensive data on bacterial and viral pathogens of diarrhea and studies applying culture-independent methods for examining antibiotic resistance in wastewater are lacking. This study aimed to simultaneously quantify antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), class 1 integron-integrase (int1), bacterial and viral pathogens of diarrhea, 16S rRNA, and other indicators using a high-throughput quantitative PCR (HT-qPCR) system. Thirty-six grab wastewater samples from a wastewater treatment plant in Japan, collected three times a month between August 2022 and July 2023, were centrifuged, followed by nucleic acid extraction, reverse transcription, and HT-qPCR. Fourteen targets were included, and HT-qPCR was performed on the Biomark X9™ System (Standard BioTools). For all qPCR assays, R2 was ≥0.978 and the efficiencies ranged from 90.5% to 117.7%, exhibiting high performance. Of the 36 samples, 20 (56%) were positive for Norovirus genogroup II (NoV-GII), whereas Salmonella spp. and Campylobacter jejuni were detected in 24 (67%) and Campylobacter coli in 13 (36%) samples, with mean concentrations ranging from 3.2 ± 0.8 to 4.7 ± 0.3 log10 copies/L. NoV-GII detection ratios and concentrations were higher in winter and spring. None of the pathogens of diarrhea correlated with acute gastroenteritis cases, except for NoV-GII, suggesting the need for data on specific bacterial infections to validate bacterial wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE). All samples tested positive for sul1, int1, and blaCTX-M, irrespective of season. The less explored blaNDM-1 showed a wide prevalence (>83%) and consistent abundance ranging from 4.3 ± 1.0 to 4.9 ± 0.2 log10 copies/L in all seasons. sul1 was the predominant ARG, whereas absolute abundances of 16S rRNA, int1, and blaCTX-M varied seasonally. int1 was significantly correlated with blaCTX-M in autumn and spring, whereas it showed no correlation with blaNDM-1, questioning the applicability of int1 as a sole indicator of overall resistance determinants. This study exhibited that the HT-qPCR system is pivotal for WBE.

QcrC is a potential target for antibody therapy and vaccination to control Campylobacter jejuni infection by suppressing its energy metabolism

Introduction

Campylobacter spp. are a public health concern, yet there is still no effective vaccine or medicine available.

Methods

Here, we developed a Campylobacter jejuni-specific antibody and found that it targeted a menaquinol cytochrome c reductase complex QcrC.

Results

The antibody was specifically reactive to multiple C. jejuni strains including clinical isolates from patients with acute enteritis and was found to inhibit the energy metabolism and growth of C. jejuni. Different culture conditions produced different expression levels of QcrC in C. jejuni, and these levels were closely related not only to the energy metabolism of C. jejuni but also its pathogenicity. Furthermore, immunization of mice with recombinant QcrC induced protective immunity against C. jejuni infection.

Discussion

Taken together, our present findings highlight a possible antibody- or vaccination-based strategy to prevent or control Campylobacter infection by targeting the QcrC-mediated metabolic pathway.

A Case of Food Poisoning Caused by Campylobacter jejuni due to Ingestion of Undercooked Chicken Meal with Subsequent Development of Guillain-Barré Syndrome

Campylobacter jejuni is one of the major bacteria that causes diarrhea in humans. It has been associated with many cases of food poisoning in Japan caused by eating raw or undercooked chicken meat, chicken liver, and grilled chicken (Yakitori). Campylobacter jejuni is also known as the preceding infection pathogen of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), which causes considerable health impact on humans. In January 2022, in a case of C. jejuni food poisoning that occurred at a restaurant in Tokyo, one of four patients with diarrhea developed GBS. The poisoning is presumed to have been caused by undercooked chicken dishes. Recently, it was one of the common cases in Japan. Moreover, C. jejuni isolates from three patients, including the patient with GBS, had the same genotype (ST22, HS19, and LOS A). This genotype was frequently detected from patients with GBS in our past surveys. Our findings confirmed that the patient developed GBS via food poisoning after consuming undercooked chicken dish.

Exploration of genes associated with induction of the viable but non-culturable state of Campylobacter jejuni

Campylobacter jejuni is known to enter a viable but non-culturable (VBNC) state when exposed to environmental stresses. Microarray and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analyses were performed to elucidate the genes related to the induction of the VBNC state. The C. jejuni NCTC11168 strain was cultured under low-temperature or high-osmotic stress conditions to induce the VBNC state. mRNA expression in the VBNC state was investigated using microarray analysis, and the gene encoding peptidoglycan-associated lipoprotein, Pal, was selected as the internal control gene using qPCR analysis and software. The three genes showing particularly large increases in mRNA expression, cj1500, cj1254, and cj1040, were involved in respiration, DNA repair, and transporters, respectively. However, formate dehydrogenase encoded by cj1500 showed decreased activity in the VBNC state. Taken together, C. jejuni actively changed its mRNA expression during induction of the VBNC state, and protein activities did not always match the mRNA expression levels.

Detection and Distribution of Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPRs) in Campylobacter jejuni Isolates from Chicken Livers

Campylobacter jejuni is the leading foodborne bacterial pathogen that causes human gastroenteritis worldwide linked to the consumption of undercooked broiler livers. Application of bacteriophages during poultry production has been used as an alternative approach to reduce contamination of poultry meat by Campylobacter. To make this approach effective, understanding the presence of the bacteriophage sequences in the CRISPR spacers in C. jejuni is critical as they may confer bacterial resistance to bacteriophage treatment. Therefore, in this study, we explored the distribution of the CRISPR arrays from 178 C. jejuni isolated from chicken livers between January and July 2018. Genomic DNA of C. jejuni isolates was extracted, and CRISPR type 1 sequences were amplified by PCR. Amplicons were purified and sequenced by the Sanger dideoxy sequencing method. Direct repeats (DRs) and spacers of CRISPR sequences were identified using the CRISPRFinder program. Further, spacer sequences were submitted to the CRISPRTarget to identify potential homology to bacteriophage types. Even though CRISPR-Cas is reportedly not an active system in Campylobacter, a total of 155 (87%) C. jejuni isolates were found to harbor CRISPR sequences; one type of DR was identified in all 155 isolates. The CRISPR loci lengths ranged from 97 to 431 nucleotides. The numbers of spacers ranged from one to six. A total of 371 spacer sequences were identified in the 155 isolates that could be grouped into 51 distinctive individual sequences. Further comparison of these 51 spacer sequences with those in databases showed that most spacer sequences were homologous to Campylobacter bacteriophage DA10. The results of our study provide important information relative to the development of an effective bacteriophage treatment to mitigate Campylobacter during poultry production.

Genotypic characterization, antimicrobial susceptibility and virulence determinants of Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli isolated from pastured poultry farms

Aim

Campylobacter is the leading bacterial pathogen that causes foodborne illnesses worldwide. Pasture farming is regarded as an important source of agricultural production for small farming communities. Consumer preference for pasture-raised animal products has increased; however, there is a paucity of information on the microbiological quality of pasture-raised poultry products. The purpose of this study was to explore genetic relatedness of thermophilic Campylobacter isolates, to assess antibiotic resistance phenotypically and genotypically, and to screen the presence of virulence determinants of Campylobacter isolates from pasture-raised poultry farms from southeastern United States.

Methods

Ninety-seven Campylobacter isolates previously identified by Q7 BAX® System Real-Time PCR were genotyped by multilocus sequence typing (MLST). Campylobacter isolates were then evaluated for their phenotypic antimicrobial susceptibility against nine antimicrobial agents using Sensititre plates. Additionally, Campylobacter isolates were tested for the presence of antimicrobial resistance-associated elements. Furthermore, Campylobacter isolates were screened for the presence of 13 genes encoding putative virulence factors by PCR. These included genes involved in motility (flaA and flhA), adhesion and colonization (cadF, docC, racR, and virB11), toxin production (cdtA, cdtB, cdtC, wlaN, and ceuE) and invasion (ciaB and iamA).

Results

Among 97 Campylobacter isolates, Campylobacter jejuni (n = 79) and Campylobacter coli (n = 18) were identified. By MLST, C. jejuni isolates were assigned to seven clonal complexes. Among them, ST-353, ST-607 and ST-21 were the most common STs recognized. All C. coli (n = 18) isolates were included in CC-828. Interestingly, eight STs identified were not belonging any previous identified clonal complex. Campylobacter isolates displayed a high resistance rate against tetracycline (81.4%), while a low rate of resistance was observed against macrolides (azithromycin and erythromycin), quinolones and fluoroquinolones (nalidixic acid and ciprofloxacin), aminoglycosides (gentamicin), ketolide (telithromycin), amphenicol (florfenicol) and lincomycin (clindamycin). Thirteen isolates (13.54%) were pan-susceptible to all tested antibiotics, while nine isolates were multi-antimicrobial resistant (MAR; resist to three or more antimicrobial classes). Interestingly, there were no isolates resistant to all antimicrobial classes. Thr86Ile mutation was identified in all quinolones resistant strains. Erythromycin encoding gene (ermB) was identified in 75% of erythromycin resistant isolates. The A2075 mutation was detected in one erythromycin resistant strain, while A2074 could not be identified. The tetO gene was identified in 93.7% of tetracycline resistant isolates and six tetracycline susceptible isolates. In conclusion, the results of this study revealed that Campylobacter isolates from pasture-raised poultry farms showed the ST relatedness to Campylobacter isolates commonly associated with humans, indicating pasture-raised broiler flocks, similar to conventionally-reared broiler flocks, as a potential vector for antibiotic-resistant and pathogenic strains of thermophilic Campylobacter to humans.

Whole-Genome and Plasmid Comparative Analysis of Campylobacter jejuni from Human Patients in Toyama, Japan, from 2015 to 2019

Campylobacter jejuni is a major causative agent of food poisoning, and increasing antimicrobial resistance is a concern. This study investigated 116 clinical isolates of C. jejuni from Toyama, Japan, which were isolated from 2015 to 2019. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing and whole-genome sequencing were used for phenotypic and genotypic characterization to compare antimicrobial resistance (AMR) profiles and phylogenic linkage. The multilocus sequence typing approach identified 37 sequence types (STs) and 15 clonal complexes (CCs), including 7 novel STs, and the high frequency CCs were CC21 (27.7%), CC48 (10.9%), and CC354 (9.9%). The AMR profiles and related resistant factors were as follows: fluoroquinolones (51.7%), mutation in quinolone resistance-determining region (QRDRs) (GyrA T86I); tetracyclines (27.6%), acquisition of tet(O); ampicillin (7.8%), harboring bla_OXA184 or a promoter mutation in bla_OXA193; aminoglycosides (1.7%), acquisition of ant(6)-Ia and aph(3')-III; chloramphenicol (0.9%), acquisition of cat. The acquired resistance genes tet(O), ant(6)-Ia, aph(3')-III, and cat were located on pTet family plasmids. Furthermore, three pTet family plasmids formed larger plasmids that incorporated additional genes such as the type IV secretion system. Sequence type 4526 (ST4526; 10.9%), which is reported only in Japan, was the most predominant, suggesting continued prevalence. This study reveals the sequences of the pTet family plasmids harbored by C. jejuni in Japan, which had been unclear, and the acquisition of the insertion sequences in a part of the pTet family plasmids. Because pTet family plasmids can be horizontally transmitted and are a major factor in acquired resistance in Campylobacter, the risk of spreading pTet that has acquired further resistance should be considered. IMPORTANCE Campylobacter jejuni is among the major causes of enteritis and diarrhea in humans in many countries. Drug-resistant Campylobacter is increasing in both developing and developed countries, and in particular, fluoroquinolone-resistant Campylobacter was one of the species included on the priority list of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Campylobacter drug resistance surveillance is important and has been conducted worldwide. In this study, we performed whole-genome analysis of Campylobacter jejuni isolated from diarrhea patients at a hospital in Toyama, Japan. This revealed the continued prevalence of Campylobacter jejuni ST4526, which has been reported to be prevalent in Japan, and the acquisition of resistance and virulence factors in the pTet family plasmids. The diversity of pTet family plasmids, the major resistance transmission factor, is expected to potentially increase the risk of Campylobacter. The usefulness of whole-genome sequencing in Campylobacter surveillance was also demonstrated.

Global epidemiology of campylobacteriosis and the impact of COVID-19

Campylobacteriosis is a gastroenteritis caused by pathogenic Campylobacter species and an important topic in public health. Here we review the global epidemiology of campylobacteriosis in the last eight years between 2014-2021, providing comprehensive and updated information on the reported incidence and outbreaks of Campylobacter infections. The government public health website of each of the 195 countries and publications from 2014 to September 2022 in public databases were searched. The reported incidence of campylobacteriosis in pre-COVID-19 years was compared to that during the COVID-19 pandemic in countries where data were available. Czech Republic had the highest reported incidence of campylobacteriosis worldwide (215 per 100,000 in 2019), followed by Australia (146.8 per 100,000 in 2016) and New Zealand (126.1 per 100,000 in 2019). Campylobacter was one of the most common human enteric pathogens in both developed and developing countries. About 90% of cases of campylobacteriosis were caused by Campylobacter jejuni, whereas less than 10% of cases were caused by Campylobacter coli. Other Campylobacter species were also isolated. The reported incidence and case numbers of campylobacteriosis in developed nations have remained steadily high prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, whilst some countries reported an increasing trend such as France and Japan. While outbreaks were more frequently reported in some countries, Campylobacter infections were mainly sporadic cases in most of the developed countries. Campylobacter infection was more common in summer in some but not all countries. Campylobacter infection was more common in males than females. The COVID-19 pandemic has reduced the reported incidence of campylobacteriosis in most countries where 2020 epidemiology data were available. In conclusion, Campylobacter infection remains a global health concern. Increased research and improved strategies are needed for prevention and reduction of Campylobacter infection.

Transmission pathways of campylobacter spp. at broiler farms and their environment in Brandenburg, Germany

Broiler meat is widely known as an important source of foodborne Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli infections in humans. In this study, we thoroughly investigated transmission pathways that may contribute to possible Campylobacter contamination inside and outside broiler houses. For this purpose we carried out a comprehensive longitudinal sampling approach, using a semi-quantitative cultivation method to identify and quantify transmissions and reservoirs of Campylobacter spp.. Three german broiler farms in Brandenburg and their surrounding areas were intensively sampled, from April 2018 until September 2020. Consecutive fattening cycles and intervening downtimes after cleaning and disinfection were systematically sampled in summer and winter. To display the potential phylogeny of barn and environmental isolates, whole genome sequencing (WGS) and bioinformatic analyses were performed. Results obtained in this study showed very high Campylobacter prevalence in 51/76 pooled feces (67.1%) and 49/76 boot swabs (64.5%). Average counts between 6.4 to 8.36 log10MPN/g were detected in pooled feces. In addition, levels of 4.7 and 4.1 log10MPN/g were detected in boot swabs and litter, respectively. Samples from the barn interior showed mean Campyloacter values in swabs from drinkers 2.6 log10MPN/g, walls 2.0 log10MPN/g, troughs 1.7 log10MPN/g, boards 1.6 log10MPN/g, ventilations 0.9 log10MPN/g and 0.7 log10MPN/g for air samples. However, Campylobacter was detected only in 7/456 (1.5%) of the environmental samples (water bodies, puddles or water-filled wheel tracks; average of 0.6 log10MPN/g). Furthermore, WGS showed recurring Campylobacter genotypes over several consecutive fattening periods, indicating that Campylobacter genotypes persist in the environment during downtime periods. However, after cleaning and disinfection of the barns, we were unable to identify potential sources in the broiler houses. Interestingly, alternating Campylobacter genotypes were observed after each fattening period, also indicating sources of contamination from the wider environment outside the farm. Therefore, the results of this study suggest that a potential risk of Campylobacter transmission may originate from present environmental sources (litter and water reservoirs). However, the sources of Campylobacter transmission may vary depending on the operation and farm environmental conditions.

Survival of Campylobacter jejuni, Salmonella, and Listeria monocytogenes and Temperature Change in Low-Temperature-Longtime-Cooked Chicken Meat

ABSTRACT

Low-temperature and longtime (LT-LT) cooking, also known as sous vide cooking, is the process in which meat is sealed in a bag and cooked in hot water at a relatively low temperature of around 60°C. This cooking method has increased in popularity, and low-temperature cookers for home use are now commercially available. However, after LT-LT cooking, if any foodborne bacteria remain, they could cause infection and foodborne illnesses. Therefore, in the present study, the aim was to determine the appropriate LT-LT cooking methods for chicken by assessing temperature changes and studying the bacteria in LT-LT-cooked chicken meat. At set cooking temperatures of 60 and 65°C, the temperatures were measured at the surface and in the centers of single- and double-layer samples of 300 g of chicken breast meat. The times required to reach 50°C were 5 to 14 min at the surface, 25 min in the center of the single-layer sample, and 33 to 35 min in the center of the double-layer sample. The time taken to reach 50°C was fastest in the surface of single-layer chicken meat, followed by the center of single-layer and double-layer chicken meat (P < 0.05). When the meat was LT-LT cooked at 60 and 65°C for 60 min, color changes in the meat and heating of the meat were observed all the way to the interior. Campylobacter jejuni, Salmonella O7, and Listeria monocytogenes were inoculated into chicken breasts, which were then cooked at set temperatures of 60 and 65°C for 15, 30, 60, 90, and 120 min. C. jejuni survived for up to 30 min of cooking, Salmonella O7 survived for up to 60 min of cooking at 60°C and 30 min at 65°C, and L. monocytogenes survived for up to 90 min of cooking at 60°C and 60 min at 65°C. Thus, to prevent infection and illness caused by the three tested bacteria species, LT-LT cooking for 120 min at 60°C and 90 min at 65°C is recommended.

HIGHLIGHTS

Two-Round Treatment With Propidium Monoazide Completely Inhibits the Detection of Dead Campylobacter spp. Cells by Quantitative PCR

Campylobacter spp. are known as important foodborne gastroenteric pathogens worldwide. Campylobacter spp. can exist in a viable but non-culturable (VBNC) state under unsuitable environmental conditions, which is undetectable by conventional culture methods. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) can be used to detect VBNC Campylobacter spp.; however, both viable and dead bacteria are detected during qPCR and are indistinguishable. Propidium monoazide (PMA), which can only enter dead bacterial cells through a damaged cell wall/cell membrane, binds to DNA and inhibits qPCR. PMA treatment has been performed along with qPCR (PMA-qPCR) to detect viable bacteria. However, the efficacy of detection inhibition differed among studies, and PMA can potentially enter living cells after changes in cell membrane permeability. In this study, we optimized the PMA treatment method by conducting it before qPCR. Two-round PMA treatment completely inhibited the qPCR signals from dead cells, whereas single-round PMA treatment failed to facilitate this. An optimized PMA-qPCR method was developed using commercial chicken meat, and VBNC Campylobacter spp., which are undetectable using conventional culture-based methods, were successfully detected. In conclusion, this study presents a novel, efficient PMA treatment method for the detection of viable Campylobacter spp., including VBNC Campylobacter spp., in chicken meat. We believe that this method will aid the reliable risk assessment of commercial chicken meat.

Prevalence and Characterization of Quinolone Resistance in Campylobacter spp. Isolates in Chicken Livers from Retail Stores in Georgia, USA

ABSTRACT

Campylobacter is a bacterial pathogen that causes human foodborne illnesses worldwide, and outbreaks have been associated with consumption of undercooked chicken livers. The objectives of this study were to compare two PCR assays of 250 Campylobacter isolates for identification to species, to assess antibiotic resistance of the isolates, and to analyze genetic diversity of the quinolone resistance determining regions (QRDRs) of the isolates. A double-blind design was used to identify the species of Campylobacter; 181 (72%) of the isolates were identified as Campylobacter jejuni, and 69 (28%) isolates were identified as Campylobacter coli by both PCR assays. A total of 93 (37.2%) isolates were resistant to at least one antibiotic. Among 88 C. jejuni isolates, 33 (18%) were resistant to nalidixic acid (NAL) and ciprofloxacin (CIP), 25 (14%) were resistant to tetracycline (TET), and 18 (10%) were resistant to NAL and TET. Two C. jejuni isolates were resistant to four of the tested antibiotics, and one isolate was resistant to five antibiotics. Two C. coli isolates were resistant to TET, and two were resistant to NAL, CIP, and TET. The amino acid sequences of the QRDRs for the isolates had eight point mutations and could be classified into 12 groups. Thirty-eight C. jejuni isolates resistant to NAL and CIP had a point mutation at residue 86 (substitution from threonine to isoleucine). However, six isolates without this substitution were resistant to NAL and/or CIP. Ten isolates with a point mutation at residue 86 were susceptible to NAL and CIP. This observation suggests that in addition to the substitution at residue 86 other mechanisms may confer resistance to quinolones. Further studies are needed to elucidate mechanisms for quinolone resistance in Campylobacter. The Campylobacter spp. isolated from chicken livers in this study were resistant to quinolones and other classes of antibiotics.

HIGHLIGHTS

Survival capability of Campylobacter upsaliensis under environmental stresses

Objective

Campylobacter upsaliensis has been recognized as an emerging pathogen. However, little is known about its survival in the environment. To evaluate its survival capability, we estimated the reduction in viable counts of C. upsaliensis after aerobic exposure to starvation in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), acidity (pH = 4.3), high osmolarity (4% NaCl), and dryness in wet pulp disks at different temperatures. Also, survival in dog feces and dog food at variable temperate was assessed.

Results

Campylobacter upsaliensis remained culturable under starvation for 4 days at 25 °C and for 10 weeks at 4 °C. C. upsaliensis was also recoverable after exposure to high osmolality for 9 days, dryness for 5 days, and acidity for 2 days, respectively. Similarly, C. upsaliensis survived in dog feces and dog food for several days at 25 °C and weeks at 4 °C. The survival capability of the organism was dependent on the water content, and also temperature. Notably, the tested C. upsaliensis strain was less resilient under all tested conditions than a C. jejuni strain used as a control. The findings showed that C. upsaliensis is able to survive under various environmental stresses, suggesting that it could pose a potential threat to public health.

The incidence of Campylobacter contamination levels through chicken-sashimi processing steps in a small-scale poultry processing plant applying the external stripping method

This study aimed to analyze the incidence of Campylobacter in a small-scale chicken meat processing plant producing "chicken-sashimi", and determine the effectiveness of surface burning as a treatmentduring processing. The most probable number (MPN) method was used to analyze the load of Campylobacter in 48 samples from four different processing steps (de-feathering, chilling, surface burning, and final-products; 12 samples each). We found the highest load of isolated bacteria in chicken skin after de-feathering. Campylobacter wasn't detectedafter the surface burning step despite a large load of bacteria present in the cecum content. Campylobacter was absent in the final products. Adequate surface burning can avoid Campylobacter contamination of chicken sashimi in the processing plant by applying the external stripping method.

Characterization and antimicrobial resistance of Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli isolated from chicken and pork

The prevalence and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) profile were investigated in Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli in chicken and pork in Fukuoka, Japan in 2019. Their AMR profiles were compared with those of C. jejuni and C. coli strains isolated in 2013. A total of 53 chicken and 14 pork samples were collected from different supermarkets in Fukuoka in 2019. Campylobacter spp. were isolated by conventional method and characterized by PCR and MALDI-TOF MS. Among 53 chicken samples tested in 2019, 24.5% and 5.7% were positive for C. jejuni and C. coli, respectively, and three (21.4%) of 14 pork samples were positive for C. coli, but not C. jejuni. From the positive samples, 13 and six strains of C. jejuni and C. coli were isolated, respectively. Antimicrobial susceptibility test against 12 different antimicrobials were performed on 48 isolates (43 C. jejuni and five C. coli) from chicken in 2013 and 19 isolates (13 C. jejuni from chicken, three C. coli from chicken and three C. coli from pork) in 2019 using the disk diffusion method. All the C. jejuni and C. coli isolated in 2013 and 2019 were highly resistant to cefazolin and sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim. Among the C. jejuni isolates from chickens, 25.6% of 2013 isolates were resistant to nalidixic acid, ciprofloxacin, and levofloxacin, and 7% to ampicillin and minocycline, while 30.8% of the isolates were resistant to minocycline, 23.1% to nalidixic acid, ciprofloxacin, and levofloxacin, and 15.4% to ampicillin in 2019. Among the C. coli isolates, 80% of isolates from chickens in 2013, and 33.3% from chicken and 100% from pork in 2019 were resistant to nalidixic acid, ciprofloxacin, and levofloxacin. The frequency of multi-drug resistant (MDR) C. jejuni and C. coli strains from chickens in 2019 were 30.8% and 33.3%, respectively, which were lower than those isolated in 2013 (37.2% and 100%, respectively). One C. jejuni and two C. coli isolates from 2013 were resistant to six antibiotics. However, two C. jejuni and one C. coli isolate from chickens in 2019 were resistant to seven and five antibiotics, respectively. All the C. coli isolates from pork in 2019 were resistant to five antibiotics. The high frequency of AMR strains in C. coli isolates from pork suggests that appropriate use of antimicrobials is required in swine husbandry.

Experimentally observed Campylobacter jejuni survival kinetics in chicken meat products during model gastric digestion tended to be lower than model predictions

Campylobacter jejuni-related foodborne diseases are mainly attributed to the consumption of undercooked chicken meat and cross-contaminated produce. This study aimed to develop a survival kinetics model, based on the Weibull model, for predicting foodborne C. jejuni survival during gastric digestion in a model stomach. We previously confirmed that C. jejuni can survive temperatures up to 62 °C; therefore, certain types of grilled chicken skewers (yakitori) were examined for C. jejuni survival during simulated gastric digestion. C. jejuni survival on a chicken thigh following grilling was examined to confirm the foods for digestion experiments. Further, C. jejuni survival during model digestion was investigated through simultaneous digestion of raw chicken and cross-contaminated iceberg lettuce. The model stomach pH increased from 1.5 to 6.0 immediately after yakitori ingestion and did not decrease below 4.0 within 3 h of digestion. Gastric digestion did not significantly contribute to C. jejuni inactivation (<1.5 log reduction after 3 h digestion). Our model could predict C. jejuni survival kinetics in simulated gastric fluid under varying pH during model digestion. This approach can be used to predict C. jejuni survival rates following digestion to improve food safety and reduce Campylobacter-related disease outbreaks.

Recommended Practices to Eliminate Campylobacter from Live Birds and Chicken Meat in Japan

Campylobacter food poisoning is one of the major bacterial foodborne diseases resulting in numerous outbreaks worldwide. Particularly in Japan, one-fourth of the total food poisoning is caused by Campylobacter jejuni/coli. Raw and/or undercooked poultry meat and meat products are known as the main cause of campylobacteriosis. Consequently, effective and immediate actions are needed to eliminate or at least reduce campylobacteriosis. This study aimed at examining the Japanese food regulation system, comparing it with those in the USA and Australia, and making necessary recommendations for a better control of campylobacteriosis in Japan. The study was conducted by a thorough investigation of published literatures, governmental documents, statistical and epidemiological data and public information. The results led to recommendations that the Japanese food regulation authority should consider the following suggestions in order to control campylobacteriosis: 1) assess the Campylobacter safety at the end of processing stage of chicken supply chain based on risk assessment using quantitative/qualitative baseline data collected over Japan, 2) establish a national Campylobacter strategy, including specific campylobacteriosis reduction goals and criteria, and 3) provide the small food business operators with sufficient training and support to implement a Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) as an obligatory food safety requirement. It is acknowledged that it would be difficult to apply foreign regulations directly to Japanese food regulation system due to differences in food culture, regulation, industry structure, and data collection systems. Thus, flexible application is required. Finding and conducting effective Campylobacter control measures can decrease contaminated live birds and chicken meat in Japan, home to a unique food culture of eating raw and/or undercooked chicken meat called Torisashi such as sashimi, tataki and yubiki chicken. Consequently, potentially available research data may be instrumental in finding solutions for reducing campylobacteriosis. Eliminating Campylobacter food poisoning cases in Japan will be a significant achievement in ensuring Japanese and global food safety.

Multi-Locus Sequence Typing and Lipooligosaccharide Class Analysis of Campylobacter jejuni HS:19 Isolated in Japan

Campylobacter jejuni is a major foodborne pathogen causing enteritis in humans and is also known as an antecedent infectious factor for Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS). The onset of GBS after C. jejuni infection results from molecular mimicry between human neuronal ganglioside and C. jejuni lipooligosaccharide (LOS). C. jejuni HS:19 has been previously reported to be isolated from GBS cases more frequently than other serotypes in Japan. Therefore, in this study, we performed molecular analysis of 88 HS:19 isolates from GBS cases, sporadic diarrheal patients, and poultry meats using multi-locus sequence typing and LOS class analysis. As a result, 87 of the 88 HS:19 isolates were typed as ST22 / CC22 and LOS class A1, while one was typed as ST1947 / CC22 and LOS class A1. Furthermore, the analysis of other 331 isolates from sporadic enteritis cases shows that only 34 (10.3%) were typed as LOS class A, including HS:19 (25 isolates), HS:2 (8 isolates), and HS:4c (1 isolate). In conclusion, C. jejuni HS:19 had high clonality, regardless of its origin, over other capsule types in Japan.

Work-related increases in titer of Campylobacter jejuni antibody among workers at a chicken processing plant in Miyazaki prefecture, Japan, independent of individual ingestion of edible raw chicken meat

Workers in poultry abattoirs may be frequently exposed to Campylobacter jejuni, which is a leading cause of bacterial food poisoning in Japan. The present study was conducted to measure the titers of IgG and IgA antibodies against C. jejuni among 104 female workers in a chicken processing plant in Miyazaki prefecture, Japan. Information regarding habitual ingestion of raw chicken meat and potential occupational risk factors was collected using a questionnaire. Acid extracts of four C. jejuni strains representing the genotypes most dominant in Miyazaki were used as antigens. The levels of both immunoglobulins measured by ELISA were not correlated with ingestion of edible raw chicken meat, the amount consumed in one sitting, or its frequency. Although age was correlated with antibody levels, the length of employment was not. Furthermore, the IgG and IgA levels in workers at the evisceration step were significantly higher than those at other locations in the plant. To identify the bacterial proteins recognized by the workers' IgG and IgA antibodies, Western blotting followed by LC/MS was conducted. Flagellin was identified as the common protein recognized in the sera of workers for whom ELISA demonstrated both the highest and lowest antibody levels. We concluded that the titers of IgG and IgA against C. jejuni in workers at the processing plant had been increased by occupational exposure to Campylobacter, regardless of raw chicken meat ingestion.

Emission Sources of Campylobacter from Agricultural Farms, Impact on Environmental Contamination and Intervention Strategies

Although extensive research has been carried out to describe the transmission pathways of Campylobacter entering livestock farms, the role of livestock farms as source of Campylobacter contamination of the environment is still poorly investigated. It is assumed that Campylobacter-positive livestock farms contribute to an environmental contamination, depending on the animal species on the farm, their Campylobacter status, the housing system, manure management as well as their general farm hygienic and biosecurity management. Different emission sources, like manure, air, water, insects and rodents as well as personnel, including equipment and vehicles, contribute to Campylobacter emission into the environment. Even though Campylobacter are rather fastidious bacteria, they are able to survive in the environment for even a longer period of time, when environmental conditions enable survival in specific niches. We conclude that a significant reduction of Campylobacter emission in the environment can be successfully achieved if various intervention strategies, depending on the farm type, are applied simultaneously, including proper general and personal hygiene, establishing of hygienic barriers, insect controls, manure management and hygienization of stables, barns and exhaust air.

Detection and identification of adhesins involved in adhesion of Campylobacter jejuni to chicken skin

Campylobacter jejuni is the leading cause of bacterial food poisoning worldwide. Chickens are considered to be one of the major reservoirs of Campylobacter infection in humans due to colonization of their intestinal tract. When the chickens are slaughtered and processed, the entire skin of the carcass becomes contaminated with campylobacters. We observed that the number of C. jejuni attached to chicken skin was reduced significantly after treatment of the skin with sodium hydroxide followed by washing with PBS, implying that adhesion factors involved in binding to C. jejuni may exist on skin. Such potential binding-related proteins present in alkaline extracts of the skin surface were detected by a two-dimensional overlay assay and identified by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Chicken serum albumin (CSA) was identified as a major protein in these alkaline extracts and confirmed by ELISA to bind specifically to C. jejuni. Moreover, using the same approach, flagellar hook protein E (FlgE) and major outer membrane protein (MOMP) in C. jejuni were identified as bacterial adhesins that bound to the CSA. The ability to bind CSA was also confirmed using recombinant FlgE and MOMP of C. jejuni expressed in Escherichia coli. The present findings suggest that adhesins expressed on C. jejuni cells may bind specifically via proteins present on the skin, as well as by physical attachment.