Campylobacteriosis in India: Beyond gastroenteritis

BACKGROUND: Campylobacter species, particularly Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli, are among the leading global causes of bacterial gastroenteritis and are primarily transmitted through contaminated food, water and animal products. Despite their recognised role in enteric infections, the broader clinical and public health significance of Campylobacter remains underappreciated, particularly in developing countries such as India. Beyond gastrointestinal illness, these pathogens are increasingly associated with a range of extraintestinal complications, including bacteremia, neurological disorders and immune-mediated sequelae. Their zoonotic nature, environmental persistence, and evolving antimicrobial resistance further complicate disease management and control. In India, limited surveillance and diagnostic challenges contribute to underestimating the true burden of Campylobacter infections. OBJECTIVES: This review examines the epidemiology of Campylobacter infections in India and highlights the expanding spectrum of extraintestinal manifestations associated with these pathogens. It also seeks to explore the mechanisms underlying immune-mediated complications and assess the growing concern of antimicrobial resistance in Campylobacter species. CONTENT: The review discusses the epidemiological trends and transmission pathways of Campylobacter, emphasizing zoonotic reservoirs, contaminated food and water, occupational exposure, and travel-related risks. It further explores extraintestinal manifestations such as bacteraemia, Guillain-Barré syndrome, and reactive arthritis, with attention to pathogenic mechanisms including molecular mimicry and immune response. Advances and limitations in diagnostic approaches, particularly the detection of Campylobacter from non-stool and systemic samples, are also addressed. Additionally. The review highlights the emerging threat of antimicrobial resistance, particularly linked to antibiotic use in animal husbandry. Finally, it underscores the importance of integrated prevention and control strategies under the One Health framework, along with strengthened surveillance, improved diagnostics and continued research to address the growing public health challenge posed by Campylobacter.