A cross sectional study on Dutch layer farms to investigate the prevalence and potential risk factors for different Chlamydia species

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0190774
• Publication Date: 2018-01-11T14:37:43Z
• Authors: Marloes Heijne; Jeanet A. van der...; Helmi Fijten; Joke W. van der G...; Eric Kuijt; Catharina B. M. M...; Annika van Roon; Ben Wit; Ad P. Koets; Hendrik I. J. Roest
• Keywords: Chlamydia psittaci; Zoonosis; Chlamydophila; Cross-sectional study; Throat

In poultry several Chlamydia species have been detected, but psittaci and gallinacea appear to be most prevalent important. is a well-known zoonosis considered pathogen of poultry. has described more recently. Its avian pathogenicity zoonotic potential further elucidated. Within the Netherlands no data were available on presence farms. As part surveillance programme for pathogens in farm animals, we investigated pooled faecal samples from 151 randomly selected layer On voluntary base, 69 farmers, family members or workers these farms submitted throat swab. All tested with generic 23S Chlamydiaceae PCR followed by specific C. avium, psittaci. avium DNA was not detected at any At 71 positive result could confirmed as gallinacea. Variables significantly associated final multivariable model 'age hens,' 'use bedding material' 'the horses.' The neither clinical signs, varying respiratory symptoms, nasal ocular discharges diarrhoea, nor higher mortality rate day before visit. swabs negative DNA, giving indication possible bird-to-human (or human-to-bird) transmission.