E.Coli

E.coli is a commensal pathogen that lives in the gut of poultry and other animals. Certain E. coli strains have the ability to become pathogenic, such as APEC (Avian Pathogenic E. coli), leading to Colibacillosis.

Co-infection with other pathogens, as well as stress, make birds more susceptible to infection with E. coli. In the event of colibacillosis, birds can show a range of symptoms related to gastrointestinal as well as respiratory symptoms. In layers a drop in egg production can be observed.

AeroCollect® can detect E. coli. Since presence of E. coli is expected in a poultry house, a sudden increase in E. coli levels is used as an indicator that E. coli might be the cause of underlying disease in the flock. Continuous monitoring throughout a rotation, compared to symptoms expressed by the birds, gives a clear image of the E. coli pressure in the flock