A longitudinal study was conducted in five conventional broiler farms during a 2-year period to determine the dynamics of Campylobacter infection in a warm climate region (north-eastern Spain). Weekly sampling of 63 flocks was performed upon one-day-old chick placement, including animal and environmental samples. Campylobacter spp. detection was assessed by culture and non-culture methods. Environmental samples were also obtained from cleaned and disinfected houses prior to chick placement. Thirty-nine flocks (61.90%) became colonized during the growing period. First bird excreting Campylobacter was detected in 10-day-old chicks and the earliest a whole flock became positive was at 14 days of age, while the latest was at 39 days. Once Campylobacter was detected in chickens, the whole flock was colonized within 2-13 days. Campylobacter farm prevalence (positive flocks) ranged from 53.85% to 83.33% in four out of five farms, while the remaining farm showed a lower prevalence (38.5%). Logistic regression model showed that Campylobacter infection was more likely under higher minimal indoor temperature as well as at higher minimal outdoor relative humidity, characteristic of warm climates such as those from Mediterranean countries. Ventilation type was also significant (P = 0.021). No clear farm effect or seasonality were observed. Biosecurity improvements, specially at house level, are needed in broiler farms to prevent flock colonization and reduce the current high flock prevalence.
Keywords: Boot socks; Colonization dynamics; Environment; Housed chickens; Intensive sampling; Poultry farms.
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