Reduction of campylobacter infections in broiler flocks by application of hygiene measures

Abstract

Transmission routes of Campylobacter spp. in broilers and possibilities for prevention of infections were studied on two Dutch broiler farms. The occurrence of Campylobacter spp. was studied in successive broiler flocks, in the environment of the farms and in some of the parent flocks involved. Isolates of Campylobacter spp. were typed by using randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis. The results indicate that broiler flocks become infected from environmental sources. The typing results suggest that on one farm transmission of Campylobacter spp. occurred from cattle to broilers via the farmer's footwear. After several campylobacter positive broiler cycles hygiene measures, including thorough cleaning and disinfection procedures, change of footwear at the entrance of each broiler house, control of vermin and other hygienic precautions, were introduced on both farms in order to prevent transmission of Campylobacter spp. from the farm environment to the broilers. The results indicate that the application of hygiene measures significantly reduced campylobacter infections of broiler flocks on both farms.

Sources of Campylobacter Colonization in Broiler Chickens

“…Certainly, water cups become campylobacter positive at about the same time that flocks become positive (6). Detection of C. jejuni in broiler house water sources prior to stocking and flock positivity has proved difficult (106). However, in natural water supplies, shearing forces, high oxygen concentration, UV, nutrient deprivation, and antimicrobials all cause the bacteria to become environmentally stressed.…”

Drinking water as the source ofCampylobacter coliinfection in grandparent heavy breeders

“…According to different studies, infection on chicken farms could enter the flock by vertical transmission from parent flocks , or by horizontal transmission via different sources (Pearson et al, 1993;van de Giessen et al, 1998;Petersen & Wedderkopp, 2001;Hiett et al, 2002;Hansson et al, 2007). Groundwater is frequently used as drinking water in poultry farms.…”

Technical specifications on harmonised epidemiological indicators for biological hazards to be covered by meat inspection of poultry

“…Several studies have indicated that applied hygienic practices and barriers as well as the type of the ventilation system can be associated with the risk of Campylobacter infection of broiler flocks (Van de Giessen et al, 1998;Evans and Sayers, 2000;Barrios et al, 2006;Hald et al, 2007;McDowell et al, 2008;Hansson et al, 2010). The analyses of the EU-wide baseline survey on Campylobacter in broiler batches and carcases indicated that the previous thinning of the flock, the age of the broilers and the quarter of sampling (3-month period) were associated with Campylobacter-colonised broiler batches (EFSA, 2011c).…”