Biosecurity measures for prevention and control of Salmonella in poultry farms

Abstract

Biosecurity measures in poultry farms are essential for maintaining animal health and welfare. Developing and implementing daily biosecurity protocols on farms reduce the entry of pathogenic microorganisms which can have direct impacts on the production processes. One of the most challenging zoonotic diseases to control in poultry flocks is salmonellosis. Poultry is considered an important reservoir of Salmonella, with poultry meat and eggs being the most common sources of salmonellosis infection in humans. Salmonella can be transmitted horizontally through contaminated environments and vertically from parent flocks to their offspring. Strict biosecurity protocols, together with effective immunoprophylactic measures, are an alternative for prevention and control of the disease. Salmonella is widespread globally and is particularly endemic in livestock farming regions. Its control strategies should address the entire chain, from meat production to storage, i.e. "from farm to table". This review paper aims to provide an overview of biosecurity implementation and evaluation in poultry farming worldwide, while also exploring potential barriers and reasons for its non-implementation.