Prevalence of and Risk Factors for Campylobacter spp. Colonization of Broiler Chicken Flocks in Greece

Abstract

The prevalence and risk factors for Campylobacter spp. colonization of broiler flocks and broiler carcass contamination in Greek slaughterhouses were investigated. Over a 14-month period, a pool of 10 ceca and 5 neck skin samples from chicken carcasses were collected from each of 142 batches of broiler flocks slaughtered in 3 different slaughterhouses. Information on potential risk factors for Campylobacter infection in broilers was collected by an on-farm interview and linked according to the Campylobacter contamination status of broiler flocks and differences in farm characteristics and management practices identified from questionnaires. Campylobacter spp. was isolated from 73.94% and 70.42% of ceca (95% CI 65.92-80.94) and carcasses (95% CI 62.19-77.78), respectively. A significant correlation (p < 0.001) between the presence of Campylobacter spp. in broiler ceca and contamination of carcasses was found, suggesting the spread of the microorganism on the skin of carcasses during the slaughtering procedure. A multiple logistic regression showed the disinfection of the poultry house being conducted by unskilled personnel (odds ratio [OR] ¼ = 3.983) as a significant risk factor (p < 0.05) and the use of straw litter as bedding material (OR ¼ = 0.170) and closure of windows during the intervals of production cycles (OR ¼ = 0.396) as significant protective factors (p < 0.05) for broiler flock contamination. These results are important and help further the understanding of the epidemiology of Campylobacter spp. derived from poultry in Greece. © Copyright 2020, Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers 2020.