Where and how does Campylobacter get into drinking water?
Campylobacter is found in every part of the United States and throughout the world. Millions of germs can be released in a bowel movement from an infected person or animal. Campylobacter may be found in water sources such as private wells that have been contaminated with feces from infected people or animals. Human or animal waste can enter the water in many different ways (i.e., sewage overflows, polluted storm water runoff, and agricultural runoff). Campylobacteriosis occurs much more often in the summer than in the winter. What are the symptoms of campylobacteriosis? The most common symptoms of campylobacteriosis include: • Diarrhea • Cramps • Stomach pain • Fever These symptoms begin in 2 to 5 days after exposure to the germ, and the illness usually lasts a week. The diarrhea may be bloody and can be accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Some persons who are infected with Campylobacter will have no symptoms at all. In persons with weak immune systems, Campylobacter sometimes spreads
