Influences of biosecurity on the occurrence of cellulitis in broiler flocks

The main condemnation reason in the slaughter of German conventional broiler fIocks is cellulitis. This disease is primarily caused by the bacterial pathogen Escherichia coli. Biosecurity is the most important aspect to avoid spreading of diseases, but, increasing farm sizes and a close proximity of broiler houses complicate compliance with appropriate measures. This study aimed to identify the most efficient biosecurity factors for controlling cellulitis in broiler chickens by using a comprehensive questionnaire. Data of the biosecurity management from broiler farms were compared to condemnation ratios of the broiler flocks. It was found that using appropriate farm-specific clothing with changing of shoes and an adequate cleaning of the broiler houses after each grow out period helped to improve outcomes regarding total condemnation ratios as well as condemnation ratios due to cellulitis.