The prevalence of Salmonella species as a biosecurity indicator in poultry farms in Sharkia governorate, Egypt

Abstract

Ward biosecurity, which means the protection of living agents, is a program aimed to keep birds safe from disease-causing microorganisms. The purpose of this study was to assess the biosecurity measures and the prevalence of Salmonella species in poultry farms in Sharkia governorate, Egypt. The sensitivity of recovered Salmonella Typhimurium isolates against various antibiotics and disinfectants was also assessed. A total of 84 samples (21 from each of four poultry farms) were obtained. Water, feedstuff, litter, cloacal swabs, wall, hand, and foot boot samples were taken in threes from each farm. According to the questionnaire, all of the farms surveyed received a "poor biosecurity" grade, with a biosecurity score (BS) of less than 50%. Salmonella species were found in 10.7% (9/84) of the all investigated samples. Cloacae had the most Salmonella species (41.7%), followed by litter (25%) and feed (8.3%). Biosecurity level and Salmonella species isolation have significant negative correlations. Based on serological examination, Salmonella Enteritidis and Salmonella Molade were the most frequent serotypes of Salmonella in litter, while Salmonella Larochelle and Salmonella Typhimurium were common in feed and cloacae. Ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin sensitivity was higher in the isolated S. Typhimurium, followed by amikacin, nitrofurantoin, ceftriaxone, and gentamycin. Virkon S (0.5%) was shown to be particularly efficient against S. Typhimurium, followed by Virocid (0.5%) and finally cid 2000 (2%). In conclusion, the results of this investigate showed the variance in biosecurity levels found across the farms studied in connection to Salmonella prevalence, with the lower percentage of biosecurity score indicating a greater degree of Salmonella prevalence. A variety of management and biosecurity practices, including extremely strict cleaning and disinfection procedures have been identified as protective factors in minimizing Salmonella species entry and persistence on poultry farms.