Campylobacter and Salmonella infections in children hospitalized with gastroenteritis in Northeastern Poland, 2020-2023.

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the epidemiology, seasonal trends, and clinical characteristics of Campylobacter and Salmonella infections in children hospitalized with acute gastroenteritis (AGE) in Northeastern Poland from 2020 to 2023. The research sought to address the scarcity of localized data on these bacterial pathogens and identify key clinical and demographic markers to improve diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. A retrospective analysis was conducted on medical records of children aged 0-17 years hospitalized at the Bialystok Children's Clinical Hospital. Stool samples were systematically collected and tested for bacterial pathogens following World Health Organization guidelines. Confirmed cases of Campylobacter and Salmonella infections were analyzed for demographic, clinical, and laboratory characteristics. Among 3,392 hospitalized children with acute gastroenteritis, bacterial pathogens were identified in 560 cases, with Campylobacter (33%) and Salmonella (32%) being the most common. A slight male predominance was noted across both pathogens. Salmonella infections were associated with significantly greater clinical severity, characterized by longer duration of diarrhea, higher frequency of vomiting, more persistent fever, greater dehydration, notably elevated inflammatory markers and longer hospital stays compared to Campylobacter. Campylobacter was notably more prevalent among children younger than 2 years. Seasonal peaks for both pathogens consistently occurred during the summer months.

Conclusion: Campylobacter and Salmonella are significant contributors to bacterial AGE in children, with distinct clinical and demographic profiles. Public health measures and enhanced diagnostics are critical to reducing the burden of these infections, particularly among younger and vulnerable children.

What is known: • Campylobacter and Salmonella are leading causes of pediatric gastroenteritis globally, with seasonal variation and clinical severity differences.

What is new: • In Northeastern Poland, Campylobacter and Salmonella cause similar numbers of pediatric AGE hospitalizations, despite official reports suggesting low Campylobacter incidence. • Salmonella infections are significantly more severe clinically, yet Campylobacter infections commonly affect children of all ages, including infants as young as 2 months.