Turkey Breeder Pathogens-Evaluation of Vertical Transmission of Salmonella and Campylobacter in Breeder Turkeys

Salmonella and Campylobacter are pathogens of concern frequently associated with poultry products. Production management intervention in breeder flocks and their progeny has potential to reduce the transmission of these bacteria. However, evidence of direct vertical transmission of these organisms through fertile turkey eggs to the progeny has not been demonstrated. The objective of this study was to determine if Campylobacter or Salmonella was transmitted through eggs and progeny of turkeys after artificial inoculation of breeder hens with semen containing marker strains of both bacteria (inoculated hens), as compared to uninoculated control hens. Eggs were collected and eggshells and yolks were checked for the presence of marker strains of Salmonella and Campylobacter.