Canadian Campylobacter Research Network

Contact Information

Dr. Catherine Carrillo
Bureau of Microbial Hazards, Health Canada (HC)
Catherine.Carrillo@hc-sc.gc.ca

or

Dr. Eduardo Taboada
Laboratory for Foodborne Zoononses, Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC)
Eduardo.Taboada@phac-aspc.gc.ca

It is estimated, that each year in Canada 1% of the population is afflicted with Campylobacter-induced gastroenteritis. Infection with this organism frequently resolves without medical intervention but represents significant burden on the Canadian economy due to lost productivity and the potential for more serious medical complications.

The Bureau of Microbial Hazards (Health Canada), in collaboration with the  Laboratory for Foodborne Zoononses (PHAC), has recently spearheaded the establishment of the Canadian Campylobacter Research Network (CCRN). This is the first formal collaborative network addressing campylobacteriosis in Canada and is chaired by Dr. Catherine Carrillo (Health Canada) and Dr. Eduardo Taboada (PHAC). The network brings together over 60 Canadian researchers from federal, provincial and academic labs with an active involvement in issues in this important field.

CCRN Objectives:

The overarching goal of the network is to coordinate research efforts in the field to gain a better understanding of campylobacteriosis, and ultimately to reduce the public health impact of this organism. The following issues will be addressed:

• To gain a better understanding of the epidemiology of campylobacteriosis in Canada
• To identify key research needs and to initiate collaborative research projects amongst members
• To standardize methods used in ongoing Canadian Surveillance activities for detection and molecular characterization of Campylobacter spp.
• To better understand the transmission of pathogenic Campylobacter spp. from the farm/environment to human/animal hosts.
• To develop strategies in data gathering and knowledge translation for the purpose of risk assessment / policy / guideline development
• To facilitate access to scientific experts during outbreaks or in other emergencies

How to Join the CCRN:

Membership in the Network is open to all individuals (Government, Non-governmental Organizations, Academia, and Industry) with a research, public health, or regulatory involvement in Campylobacter research in Canada. Meetings are held at least four times per year by teleconference. Face-to-face meetings will be held in conjunction with relevant scientific conferences whenever possible. Members can use the  SharePoint site to communicate amongst each other.

To become a member, please email the following information to the address below:

• your name, title and organization,
• your complete contact information,
• a few lines describing you research interests as they apply to the CCRN, and
• any recent publications relevant to the CCRN.

Membership Applications and inquiries may be sent to:
CCRN_RCRC@hc-sc.gc.ca