Researchers Tracked Resistant Strain Across Europe
A multidrug-resistant Campylobacter coli strain circulated across nine European nations from 2018 to 2025.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Diseases — General
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Scientists identified a multidrug-resistant strain of Campylobacter coli, known as sequence type 10042, that circulated across Europe between 2018 and 2025. Whole genome sequencing of 217 isolates confirmed cross-border infection clusters.
Why it matters
The study highlights that many infections are not sporadic but represent related outbreaks, prompting concerns about the transmission of resistant bacteria through the food supply.
Researchers analyzed 217 isolates, including 30 from animal and food sources, of which 25 were linked to poultry. The investigation focused on sequence type 10042, identifying 104 samples from Portugal alone.
The details
Whole genome sequencing revealed that human, animal, and food isolates are genetically linked, with a notable cluster in Ireland connecting chicken and human samples during 2021 and 2022. The primary cluster in Portugal contained 28 isolates, underscoring the persistence of the strain in the region.
Timeline
The multidrug-resistant strain circulated across Europe from 2018 to 2025.
Researchers analyzed 104 Portuguese isolates collected between 2020 and 2025.
Campylobacter coli infections reached a peak in Portugal during 2022.
The Big Picture
The study utilized the European genomic surveillance databases to identify the cross-border spread of the bacterial strain. This research follows the established pattern of using these databases to track multidrug-resistant bacterial transmission across international borders.
The detection of multidrug-resistant bacteria suggests that standard antibiotic treatments may become less effective for foodborne illnesses. Consumers should prioritize safe food handling and thorough cooking of poultry to reduce the risk of contracting resistant strains.
The takeaway
This analysis demonstrates that what appear to be individual cases are often part of larger, interconnected outbreaks facilitated by global food distribution. Maintaining stringent hygiene practices is critical to mitigating the impact of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the home.
Further reading
For more information on the spread of pathogens, visit the Diseases — General section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Food Safety News.
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