| Description | Campylobacter fetus is a gram-negative, spiral-shaped microbe that thrives in mesophilic temperatures, categorizing it as a chemoheterotroph, and can be found in various body sites of numerous species, including the intestinal tract, reproductive organs, and bloodstream, across different animal hosts, from humans to cattle, pigs, and sheep. As a microaerophile, it requires a low-oxygen environment to survive, which is reflected in its optimal growth conditions. The gram-negative characteristic of Campylobacter fetus indicates that it has a thin peptidoglycan layer in its cell wall, making it more resistant to certain antibiotics. Its spiral shape allows it to penetrate mucosal surfaces, contributing to its pathogenicity. As a mesophile, Campylobacter fetus grows best at temperatures between 25°C and 45°C, which is typical for many pathogens that infect warm-blooded hosts. As a chemoheterotroph, Campylobacter fetus relies on organic compounds for energy and carbon, which it obtains from its host or environment. This characteristic is essential for its survival and ability to cause disease. The microbe's presence in various body sites across different species highlights its adaptability and ability to infect a wide range of hosts. Campylobacter fetus is also capable of causing disease in humans, particularly in those with compromised immune systems. Its ability to infect the intestinal tract and other body sites can lead to severe complications, including bacteremia and sepsis. The microbe's resistance to certain antibiotics and its ability to form biofilms make treatment challenging. Campylobacter fetus has been identified as a major cause of spontaneous abortions in cattle, resulting in significant economic losses for the livestock industry, and its ability to infect humans through contaminated food and water highlights the need for proper food handling and hygiene practices to prevent the spread of this microbe. |
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