Salmonellosis in Poultry - An Overview

Abstract

Protecting poultry flocks from contamination by undesirable micro-organisms is an extremely important component of commercial poultry production. The introduction of a highly pathogenic, contagious disease organism into poultry flocks could result in serious economic consequences for the whole society. Salmonella are intestinal bacteria that can be transmitted by all animals, including humans. Out of total 2500 serovars the two host-adapted serovars, Salmonella pullorum (pullorum disease) and S. gallinarum (fowl typhoid) mainly affect the poultry. Salmonella can be transmitted both vertically from parent flocks to progeny and horizontally from contamination in the environment to the birds. Good management and bio-security can reduce the risk of introduction and persistence of infections to minimal levels.