Waterborne outbreak of Campylobacter jejuni in Christchurch: the importance of a combined epidemiologic and microbiologic investigation.

Campylobacter is a common cause of gastroenteritis in New Zealand; however, the source of infection usually remains unknown. Reports of two cases of Campylobacter jejuni enteritis at a camp and convention centre near Christchurch were investigated. Through interviews of persons living at or attending the camp, 42 additional cases were identified. Epidemiologic and microbiologic data strongly suggested the water supply as the source of infection. The combined epidemiologic and microbiologic investigation was useful in quickly defining the magnitude and source of the outbreak, allowing for rapid implementation of control measures.