Bio typing of Thermotolerant Campylobacter Isolates from Red Meat in Wasit Province, Iraq

Abstract

Background and Aims: A bacterial gastroenteritis commonly caused by Campylobacter jejuni (C. jejuni) and Campylobacter coli (C. coli) is known as campylobacteriosis. Among the most common bacterial infections associated with food poisoning, thermotolerant Campylobacter species are found all over the globe. This study set out to examine the various Campylobacter biotypes. Methodology: This study investigated thermotolerant Campylobacter jejuni and C. coli isolates from red meat sold in Wasit Province, Iraq, between October 2022 and September 2023. Twelve isolates confirmed by mPCR were biotyped using the Lior scheme. Results: According to the findings, two biotypes (I and II) were identified, with biotype I predominating in both species (75–100%) compared to biotype II (20–25%). The predominance of biotype I in red meat suggests potential zoonotic transmission pathways between animals and humans. These findings provide baseline data for future surveillance of Campylobacter infections in Iraq. Conclusion: Further evidence suggests these meals contribute to the transfer of diseases among customers is provided by the fact that biotype II of these species is more common in animals and biotype I is more common in humans. Future research should use more clinical and food-related isolates to enhance generalizability. Characterizing molecular virulence genes facilitates the comprehension of processes.