The pattern of Campylobacter contamination on broiler farms; external and internal sources
Abstract
The aim of this study was to apply the most sensitive molecular techniques in combination with culture-based methods to characterize broiler farms in terms of the timeline ('appearance' and 'pattern') of Campylobacter contamination prior to and post detection in the birds. Faecal and environmental samples were collected from three broiler farms (two flocks per farm). Real-time PCR was used to test for the presence of Campylobacter. Culture-based methods (enrichment and direct plating) were also applied and isolates were subject to a range of confirmatory tests before speciation (multiplex PCR). All flocks were colonized by Campylobacter before first thin and a similar pattern of Campylobacter contamination was observed; (day -1) a range of external and internal samples real-time PCR positive but culture negative; (day 0) chicks negative; (6-9 days pre-detection in the birds) internal samples (feeders, drinkers, barrier and/or bird weigh) culture positive and (post broiler infection) increasing concentrations of Campylobacter in internal samples but also on the tarmac apron and anteroom. It was concluded that; (i) vertical transmission did not occur; (ii) the environment was a potential source of Campylobacter; (iii) testing are...Continue Reading
References
Campylobacter spp. in conventional broiler flocks in Northern Ireland: epidemiology and risk factors
Influxed insects as vectors for Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli in Danish broiler houses
Persistent environmental reservoirs on farms as risk factors for Campylobacter in commercial poultry
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Campylobacteriosis (ASM)
Campylobacteriosis is caused by the bacteria Campylobacter jejuni and is a common cause of gastroenteritis in humans. Discover the latest research on Campylobacteriosis here.