A FURTHER STUDY OF THE EPIDEMIOLOGY OF CAMPYLOBACTER-JEJUNI INFECTIONS

Abstract

Epidemiological data on notifications of Campylobacter jejuni infections is given for the Christ church health district area [New Zealand]. The number of notifications rose steadily to a peak of 883 cases in 1987 (rate 261 per 100 000 population). Christchurch shows consistently higher rates than the rest of New Zealand. Peak incidence in the 0-4 age group; there is a high incidence amongst males and in rural areas; peak incidences in spring/summer: occupational risks have not been identified; chicken consumption is high amongst the sufferers, but statistical significance uncertain. The major association identified amongst campylobacter cases is a household contact with dogs. This has a risk factor of 1.25 to 2 times.