Many cases go unreported because the cases tend to be isolated, sporadic events, not part of large outbreaks. A recent outbreak of Campylobacter in Utah followed a fairly common pattern. During January of 2002, 13 members of a boys basketball team in a rural central Utah community became ill with Campylobacteriosis following a team breakfast. The cause was raw cows milk.

Sources of the infection:
	CDC estimates 80% poultry for human consumption is contaminated
	Birds contaminated show no signs of illness
	Unpasteurized milk is contaminated if the cow has a Campylobacter infection in her udder or the milk is contaminated with manure
	Raw milk is a common source
	Contaminated water, vegetables, and shellfish may also be sources
	Surface water (mountain streams) can become contaminated by infected feces from domestic livestock, pets, or birds
	Community water supplies account for the majority of reported waterborne outbreaks

Although rare, some long-term consequences can result. Some people may have arthritis following Campylobacteriosis; others may develop a rare disease that affects the nerves of the body beginning several weeks after the diarrheal illness. This disease, called Guillain-Barre syndrome, occurs when a person's immune system is "triggered" to attack the body's own nerves, and can lead to paralysis that lasts several weeks and requires intensive care. It is estimated that 1 in every 1000 reported Campylobacteriosis cases leads to Guillain-Barre syndrome. As many as 40% of the Guillain-Barre' syndrome cases in this country may be triggered by Campylobacteriosis.

                                            Prevention of Campylobacteriosis

	Avoid unpasteruized milk. Don't drink untreated surface water.
	Cook all animal foods, especially poultry products. Avoid washing poultry before cooking because it increases he likelihood of cross-contamination from water splashing in the sink.
	Sanitizers are effective at commonly used concentrations.
	Prevent cross-contamination: ~~~Use separate cutting boards for food of animal origin and other foods. ~~~Carefully clean all cutting boards, countertops, and utensils with soap and hot water. ~~~Sanitize countertops which may become contaminated.
	Teach your family proper hand washing techniques. Child care providers must wash their hands thoroughly and frequently after changing diapers or helping children in the bathroom.
	Always wash hands thoroughly after having contact with pets, their cages, and liter boxes. Keep pets away from the preparation of food.