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Hi Ms. B,
The bug is called Campylobacter jejuni,
and is the most common cause of bacterial diarrhea in the United States.
Diarrhea, cramping, and fever usually last for 2-5 days, and sometimes
includes blood in the bowel movement.
Summer is the peak season for the bug.
It hits infants commonly because it is easily transmitted from infant to
infant, especially if the infant is having a lot of diarrhea. Most cases
of campylobacteriosis are associated with handling raw poultry or eating
raw or undercooked poultry meat (more that 50% of chicken in the U.S.
has Campylobacter on it), contaminated water, unpasteurized milk or from
animals that can be infected.
People have acquired their infection
from contact with the infected stool of an ill dog or cat. Most cases
resolve on their own, and do not need antibiotics. If severe,
antibiotics may be indicated.
To help prevent infection, cook
poultry to an internal temp of 180 F. Good hygiene can also help prevent
infection...wash your hands when dealing with raw chicken or any raw
foods, and wash the hands of infants and children who have diarrhea. The
good news is that most cases resolve with no problems.
I hope your little one is better soon.
Dr. Mike
This
article was reviewed
04/23/2010 07:24 AM
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