5 tips for enhanced colibacillosis control in poultry

Proper disinfection and fumigation procedures can help prevent the spread of colibacillosis from bird to bird. Other sources of exposure include contaminated feces, water, dust and the environment.

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turkeys on the farm. Turkey farming. Growing or cultivation of turkey
turkeys on the farm. Turkey farming. Growing or cultivation of turkey
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Proper disinfection and fumigation procedures can help prevent the spread of colibacillosis from bird to bird. Other sources of exposure include contaminated feces, water, dust and the environment. 

Colibacillosis refers to the family of infectious diseases caused by the pathogen, Escherichia coli, including airsacculitis, cellulitis, omphalitis, peritonitis, salpingitis, synovitis, septicemia and coligranuloma.

The disease costs the U.S. poultry industry millions of dollars each year in losses and can result in septicemia, organ failure and death. Colibacillosis can infect all types in age groups of poultry, although it is most frequently found in young chickens, turkeys and ducks. 

In poultry, the E. coli strain most likely to result in disease is avian pathogenic E. coli (APEC).

Outbreaks are most likely to occur after poor sanitation or environmental conditions in a poultry house or following respiratory and immunosuppressive disease. 

Here are five tips for improved colibacillosis control in poultry:

1. Minimize eggshell contamination

There is evidence that E. coli can be passed from hen to egg, so disinfection plays a crucial role in minimizing eggshell contamination. Proper egg storage and scrupulous hatchery sanitation, disinfection and/or fumigation practices are also important.

While some chicks may hatch with a latent infection, active infection typically only occurs after environmental stress or lesions.

2. Set strict sanitation standards

The proper sanitation of poultry houses is critical. This process, which includes the poultry house cleanout, requires multiple detailed steps and thorough preparation to prevent the spread of pathogens between flocks.

3. Keep feed clean

Feed can be a source of fecal contamination in poultry houses. The use of pelleted feeds may help reduce contamination, according to the Avian Disease Manual, Eighth Edition. Feed should be routinely tested to ensure it is free of E. coli and other potential contaminants before being introduced to a poultry house.

It is also important to keep feeders at the proper height to optimize access, while also preventing birds from sitting or standing on the feed pan.

4. Clean water lines help

A clean water supply is a major contributor to the health of a poultry flock, while dirty water systems often result in biofilm. There are several ways to prevent the formation of biofilms, which can contain dangerous microorganisms such as harmful bacteria, yeasts and molds that can contaminate drinking water. 

Water acidifiers can reduce the pH to 4, which creates an environment too acidic for most pathogens to survive in. Water lines should be flushed between bird cycles and after birds receive any sort of treatment such as vaccines, antibiotics or vitamins delivered through water.

In addition, water lines should be disinfected between cycles to remove biofilm buildup. Following disinfection, water lines should be flushed.Treatments with halogens, such as chlorine, or other related compounds can also help reduce the incidence of colibacillosis during the production cycle.

5. Vaccination

Spray vaccines designed to target E. coli in poultry are usually given in two doses throughout the growout period. The first dose is typically administered early in the vaccination program, with the second given close to housing. Onset of immunity occurs 14 days after administration, lasting up to 12 weeks.. 

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