How is Campylobacter primarily transmitted?

• A. Fecal-oral and foodborne transmission.
• B. Airborne transmission via respiratory droplets.
• C. Vector-borne by ticks.
• D. Bloodborne transmission only.

Answer: (A)

Campylobacter infections are most often acquired when the bacteria shed in feces are ingested, typically via contaminated food or water. The strongest link is to undercooked poultry, but cross-contamination in the kitchen (clean surfaces or utensils that touch raw poultry and then contact ready-to-eat foods) and consumption of unpasteurized milk or untreated water also contribute. Preventing this route focuses on thorough cooking, pasteurization, and good hygiene to avoid fecal contamination. Airborne spread, vector-borne transmission by ticks, and bloodborne routes are not the usual means of transmission for Campylobacter, making the fecal-oral and foodborne pathway the primary mode.