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Title: FLOW OF CAMPYLOBACTER SPP. THROUGH U.S. POULTRY OPERATIONS

Author
item Stern, Norman
item Bailey, Joseph
item Cox Jr, Nelson
item Craven, Stephen
item Cray, Paula

Submitted to: Campylobacter Helicobacter and Related Organisms International Workshop
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 10/15/1999
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Our goal was to determine the most significant sources of Campylobacter spp. In poultry operations. 11,000 samples from 32 broiler flocks were evaluated. Genetic fingerprinting of the isolates are ongoing and will enhance identification of causal relationships. Prior to chicken placement, Campylobacter spp. Was isolated from mice and wild bird feces, one of 775 paper pads, insects, water lines and drinkers, litter, fan blade swabs, non-broiler animals on the farm, farmer's boot swabs and fly strips were positive. After 6 weeks of production about 54%, and 8 weeks about 95% were colonized at levels of 10(5- 8)cfu/gm. Comparatively low frequencies (30%) and levels were found. This reduction appears to have been accomplished primarily be increased application of chlorination in the chiller tanks. Among the four integrated cooperators, carcasses ranged from 21 to 41% positive. Further understanding of the sources for poultry infection will be gained upon completion of the genetic analysis of the isolates.