Detection of small numbers of Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli cells in environmental water, sewage, and food samples by a seminested PCR assay

Small numbers of Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli cells have been detected in environmental water, sewage and food samples using a seminested PCR assay. Water and sewage samples were filtered, while the filters were enriched overnight in a nonselective medium. The approach proved effective for specific detection of Campylobacter jejuni or Campylobacter coli in drinking water as well as environmental water, sewage and food samples with high concentrations of background organisms.