Abstract This study aimed to evaluate in feral pigs the presence of Salmonella spp (Spp), porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV), porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2), swine influenza virus (SIV), porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae (Mhyo) and Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (App). The samples were obtained from pigs in the states of Chihuahua and Durango, Mexico. The tests analyzed for the animals from Chihuahua were nasal swabs for SIV, rectal swabs for Spp and PEDV, serum for PRRSV and PCV2, lung, liver, and lymph nodes for Spp, SIV, PRRSV, and PCV2, as well as serum for serological tests. From animals in the state of Durango, the following was collected: nasal swabs for SIV, rectal swabs for Spp and PEDV, and serum for PCV2 for molecular and serological studies. The molecular results in both states showed samples positive for PCV2, 73.3 % in Chihuahua and 91.3 % in Durango; likewise, two positive samples were obtained for Spp in the state of Chihuahua (13.3 %) and one in Durango (6.6 %), for SIV there were two positive (8.7 %) in Durango. For PRRSV and PEDV, samples were negative in both states. Serological results in pigs from the two states showed positivity for PCV2, Spp, and App. Samples were negative for PRRSV, PEDV, and Mhyo in both states. It is important to highlight the molecular and serological detection of feral pigs positive for various infectious agents important in pig production with zoosanitary repercussions on public health, which implies an epidemiological relevance of these animals in the context of “one health”.

Resumen El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar en cerdos ferales la presencia de Salmonella spp (Spp), el virus del síndrome reproductivo y respiratorio porcino (VPRRS), circovirus porcino tipo 2 (PCV2), virus de influenza porcina (VIP), virus de diarrea epidémica porcina (VDEP), Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae (Mhyo) y Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (App). Las muestras se obtuvieron de cerdos en los estados de Chihuahua y Durango, México. Las pruebas analizadas para los animales de Chihuahua fueron hisopado nasal para VIP, hisopado rectal para Spp y VDEP, suero para VPRRS y PCV2, pulmón, hígado y linfonodos para Spp, VIP, VPRRS y PCV2, así como suero para pruebas serológicas. De los animales del estado de Durango se recolectó hisopado nasal para VIP, hisopado rectal para Spp y VDEP, y suero para PCV2 para estudios moleculares y serológicos. Los resultados moleculares en ambos estados mostraron muestras positivas para PCV2, 73.3 % en Chihuahua y 91.3 % para Durango, de igual forma se obtuvieron dos muestras positivas para Spp en el estado de Chihuahua (13.3 %) y una en Durango (6.6 %), para VIP hubo dos positivas (8.7 %) en Durango. Para VPRRS y VDEP, las muestras fueron negativas en ambos estados. Los resultados serológicos en cerdos de los dos estados mostraron positividad para PCV2, Spp y App. Las muestras fueron negativas para VPRRS, VDEP y Mhyo en ambos estados. Es importante remarcar la detección molecular y serológica de cerdos ferales positivos a diversos agentes infecciosos importantes en la producción porcina con repercusiones zoosanitarias en la salud pública, que implica una relevancia epidemiológica de estos animales en el contexto de “una salud”.

ABSTRACT Brazilian chicken meat is exported to more than 150 countries and consumed by consumer markets that demand high quality and food safety, thus, requiring very strict control of pathogens present in food to guarantee these rigorous safety standards. This study evaluates the reports from the Salmonella spp. Control and Monitoring Program of the Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Supply of seven slaughterhouses inspected by the Federal Inspection Service from the western region of Paraná state, Brazil, from March 2017 to February 2019. The broiler litter swab and carcass analyses revealed a Salmonella spp. positivity ratio of 5.9% (19/319) and 23.5% (75/319), respectively. The concomitant presence of Salmonella spp. in the broiler litter swab and chicken carcasses occurred in 58% of the positive samples. The most frequently isolated serovar in the carcasses was Salmonella Heidelberg (85.3%) followed by Salmonella spp. (10.6%). During slaughter, carcass positivity to Salmonella spp. was significantly different (p=0.047) between the first (19.6%) and the second (29.4%) shifts. The results alert for the possibility of carcass contamination during slaughtering and, therefore, more stringent hygiene measures between shifts must be implemented to mitigate carcass contamination.

RESUMO A carne de frango brasileira é consumida em mais de 150 países, em mercados exigentes com a qualidade e a produção de alimentos seguros, o que justifica o controle de patógenos nesse alimento, a fim de assegurar tais requisitos. O presente estudo analisou dados constantes dos relatórios do Programa de Controle e Monitoramento da Salmonella spp. do Ministério da Agricultura, Pecuária e Abastecimento do Brasil (MAPA), realizado em sete unidades avícolas e frigoríficas da região oeste do estado do Paraná, com Serviço de Inspeção Federal, no período entre março 2017 e fevereiro de 2019. A análise dos dados revelou a presença de Salmonella spp. no suabe de cama de frango em 5,9% dos lotes analisados e em 23,5% das carcaças oriundas desses lotes. A presença concomitante de Salmonella spp. no suabe de cama e nas carcaças de frango do lote ocorreu em 58% das amostras positivas. O sorovar mais frequentemente isolado nas carcaças foi Salmonella Heidelberg (85,3%), seguido de Salmonella spp. (10,6%). Durante o abate, observou-se diferença significativa (P=0,047) na positividade das carcaças para Salmonella spp. entre o primeiro (19,6%) e o segundo turno (29,4%). Os resultados indicam a possibilidade de contaminação das carcaças durante o abate, portanto a adoção de medidas mais rigorosas de higienização entre os turnos deve ser implementada a fim de mitigar a contaminação das carcaças.

RESUMEN Objetivos. Determinar la proporción de Salmonella enterica en muestras fecales de cerdos vivos con presunta salmonelosis analizadas en la unidad de diagnóstico de la Universidad de Antioquia (Colombia) entre el 2019 y el 2021, así como examinar los serotipos y los patrones de resistencia a los antimicrobianos. Métodos. Se trata de un estudio transversal de laboratorio sobre datos ordinarios de muestras fecales provenientes de granjas porcinas de las nueve subregiones del departamento de Antioquia (Colombia). La detección de Salmonella spp. en la universidad se realiza mediante el enriquecimiento, el cultivo selectivo y la reacción en cadena de la polimerasa. Se identificaron los serotipos con el esquema de Kauffmann-White y se examinaron las cepas aisladas para determinar la susceptibilidad antimicrobiana mediante microdilución en caldo. Resultados. De las 653 muestras analizadas, 149 (23%) dieron un resultado positivo para S. enterica. Se identificaron nueve serotipos. Los más comunes fueron Salmonella typhimurium (56%) y su variante monofásica (35%). La resistencia a la ampicilina fue la observada con mayor frecuencia (70%), seguida de la resistencia al ciprofloxacino (55%) y al sulfametoxazol-trimetoprima (52%). Ninguna cepa aislada fue resistente a la amikacina y la gentamicina. Se observó resistencia a múltiples fármacos (resistencia a tres o más clases de antibióticos) en 61 cepas (44%). La resistencia a múltiples fármacos fue más elevada en el caso de S. typhimurium (57%) en comparación con los otros serotipos. Se asoció el serotipo con la resistencia a múltiples fármacos (p = 0,01), a diferencia de la edad del cerdo y la subregión. Conclusiones. La proporción de Salmonella spp. y los elevados niveles asociados de resistencia a múltiples fármacos son preocupantes y pueden ser un indicativo de uso irracional de antimicrobianos y malas prácticas de gestión en los sistemas de producción porcina de la región. Es necesario reforzar la vigilancia para dar seguimiento y mejorar las prácticas de gestión agropecuaria y el uso de antimicrobianos en las granjas en Colombia.

RESUMO Objetivos. Determinar a proporção de Salmonella enterica em amostras de fezes de suínos vivos com suspeita de salmonelose analisadas na unidade de diagnóstico da Universidade de Antioquia, Colômbia, entre 2019 e 2021, e examinar seus sorotipos e padrões de resistência a antimicrobianos. Métodos. Estudo transversal, de base laboratorial, utilizando dados de rotina de amostras de fezes recebidas de suinocultores em todas as nove sub-regiões do estado de Antioquia, Colômbia. A detecção de Salmonella spp. na Universidade é feita por enriquecimento, cultura seletiva e reação em cadeia da polimerase. Os sorotipos foram identificados usando o esquema de Kauffmann-White, e os isolados foram testados quanto à suscetibilidade aos antimicrobianos pelo método de microdiluição em caldo. Resultados. Das 653 amostras testadas, 149 (23%) foram positivas para S. enterica. Foram identificados nove sorotipos. Os mais comuns foram Salmonella Typhimurium (56%) e sua variante monofásica (35%). A resistência à ampicilina (70%) foi observada com maior frequência, seguida pela resistência ao ciprofloxacino (55%) e ao sulfametoxazol/trimetoprima (52%). Nenhum isolado apresentou resistência à amicacina ou gentamicina. Multirresistência (resistência a ≥ 3 classes de antibióticos) foi observada em 61 isolados (44%). A multirresistência foi mais comum em S. Typhimurium (57%), em comparação aos outros sorotipos. Foi constatada associação da multirresistência com sorotipos (p = 0,01), mas não com idade do suíno ou sub-região. Conclusões. A proporção de Salmonella spp. e os níveis elevados associados de multirresistência a antimicrobianos aqui constatados são preocupantes, e podem indicar uso irracional de antimicrobianos e práticas inadequadas de manejo nos sistemas de suinocultura da região. É preciso fortalecer a vigilância para monitorar e melhorar as práticas de manejo agrícola e o uso de antimicrobianos em fazendas na Colômbia.

ABSTRACT Objectives. To determine the proportion of Salmonella enterica in fecal samples of live pigs with suspected salmonellosis analyzed at the diagnostic unit of the University of Antioquia, Colombia between 2019 and 2021, and examine the serotypes and antimicrobial resistance patterns. Methods. This was a laboratory-based cross-sectional study of routine data on fecal samples received from pig farms in all nine subregions of Antioquia state, Colombia. Salmonella spp. detection at the university is done using enrichment, selective culture, and polymerase chain reaction. Serotypes were identified using the Kauffmann–White scheme and isolates were tested for antimicrobial susceptibility using broth microdilution. Results. Of 653 samples tested, 149 (23%) were positive for S. enterica. Nine serotypes were identified. The most common were Salmonella Typhimurium (56%) and its monophasic variant (35%). Resistance to ampicillin (70%) was most frequently observed, followed by ciprofloxacin (55%), and sulfamethoxazole–trimethoprim (52%). No isolates were resistant to amikacin and gentamicin. Multidrug resistance (resistance to ≥ 3 classes of antibiotics) was observed in 61 (44%) isolates. Multidrug resistance was highest in S. Typhimurium (57%) compared with the other serotypes. Serotype was associated with multidrug resistance (p = 0.01), but age of the pig and sub-region were not. Conclusions. The proportion of Salmonella spp. and the associated high levels of multidrug resistance are of concern and may indicate irrational use of antimicrobials and poor management practices in pig production systems in the region. Strengthened surveillance is needed to monitor and improve farm management practices and the use of antimicrobials in farms in Colombia.

RESUMO: Pombos urbanos são conhecidos pela sua capacidade de carrear e disseminar diversos agentes zoonóticos. Estudos tem sugerido que pombos são também relevantes na disseminação de estirpes resistentes a múltiplas drogas. No presente estudo, pombos no ambiente de um hospital veterinário foram amostrados em três diferentes períodos e testados para a presença de Escherichia coli patogênica, Salmonella spp., Staphylococcus spp. e Clostridioides (Clostridium) difficile. Isolados de E. coli de 19 pombos (40.4%) foram positivos para o gene codificador da toxina EAST1. O gene codificador de intimina (eae) do patotipo E. coli enteropatogênica foi encontrada em um isolado (2.1%). Salmonella spp. foi encontrada em nove pombos (19.1%), sendo todos isolados do primeiro período de captura (P < 000.1). S. Typhimurium foi isolado de seis animais e S. Heidelberg de três. A tipagem molecular de isolados de Salmonella spp. por ERIC-PCR demonstrou que oito estirpes possuíam alta similaridade genética entre si, sugerindo a ocorrência de um surto de salmonelose nos animais carreadores. Vinte Staphylococcus (42.5%) foram isolados de 18 animais (38.3%). Oito diferentes espécies foram detectadas, sendo S. xylosus a mais frequente. Duas estirpes de C. difficile não-toxigênica (4.3%) foram isoladas. Uma estirpe de S. Typhimurium, uma de S. aureus e um isolado de C. difficile foram classificados como resistentes a múltiplas drogas antimicrobianas. O presente estudo sugere que pombos capturados no ambiente do hospital veterinário podem atuar como reservatórios e disseminadores de bactérias patogênicas e envolvidas em infecção hospitalar, incluindo E. coli diarreiogênica e Staphylococcus sp., C. difficile e Salmonella spp multirresistente.

ABSTRACT: Pigeons are known for their capacity to harbor and spread several zoonotic agents. Studies have suggested that pigeons are also relevant disseminators of multidrug-resistant strains. In this study, pigeons surrounding a veterinary hospital were sampled and tested for the presence of pathogenic Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., Staphylococcus spp., and Clostridioides (Clostridium) difficile. E. coli isolates from 19 (40.4%) pigeons tested positive for the E. coli heat-stable enterotoxin 1 (EAST1)-encoding gene. The intimin-encoding gene (eae) of enteropathogenicE. coli (EPEC) was found in one isolate (2.1%). Salmonella spp. were found in nine (19.1%) pigeons, all from the first capture event (P < 000.1). S. Typhimurium and S. Heidelberg were isolated from six and three pigeons, respectively. Enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus (ERIC-PCR) of the Salmonella spp. isolates suggested that eight of the nine strains had a high genetic similarity, supporting the hypothesis of an outbreak of salmonellosis in these pigeons. Twenty (42.5%) staphylococcal isolates were recovered from 18 (38.3%) pigeons. Eight different species were detected, with S. xylosus being the most frequent. Two (4.3%) C. difficile strains were isolated. Three isolates, one each of S. Typhimurium, S. aureus, and C. difficile, were classified as multidrug-resistant strains. The present research suggested that pigeons residing in urban areas can act as reservoirs and disseminators of pathogenic bacteria, including nosocomial pathogens, such as diarrheagenicE. coli and multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus spp., C. difficile, and Salmonella spp.

Abstract Salmonella enterica serovar Heidelberg (SH), often isolated from broiler chicken samples, damages the entire production chain due to its high resistance in the environment. The search for sustainable disinfectant agents has intensified, focusing on the action of essential oils. This work's objective was to evaluate the in vitro, effect of Thymus vulgaris essential oil (TEO) and thymol in SH isolated from broilers, and the cytotoxicity in animal cells. Four different concentrations of TEO (0.1%, 0.2%, 0.4%, and 0.8%, (v/v)) were used against five SH isolates obtained from broilers and ATCC 8326. Thymol was evaluated at the concentrations of 0.023%, 0.047%, 0.071%, and 0.094% (v/v). In vitro antibacterial assays were performed by quantifying viable planktonic cells in the broth microdilution test. The MTT technique was used to assess the cytotoxicity in IEC-6 intestinal cells and NCTC fibroblasts. IC50 was assessed testing the concentrations of 0.0625%, 0.125%, 0.25%, and 0.5% of TEO and thymol in 24 hours. The bacterial activity was observed from the 0.2% concentration of TEO since no colony-forming units were observed. Thymol in the concentration of 0.094% controlled 83.33% of the bacteria. TEO presented an IC50 of 0.14% and 1.22%, while the IC50 for thymol was 0.068% and 0.001% for the IEC-6 and NCTC cells, respectively. On the other hand, TEO showed low cytotoxicity in fibroblasts and a potential action capacity to eliminate SH strains in vitro.

ABSTRACT: Pullorum disease is described worldwide and is caused by Salmonella enterica subspecies enterica serovar Gallinarum biovar Pullorum (S. Pullorum). S. Pullorum infection is important in commercial poultry, provoking a systemic disease with high mortality rates. Its occurrence requires notification, and when it is diagnosed in commercial breeding flocks, its eradication is demanded. The aim of this study was to report a severe outbreak of Pullorum disease in young Guinea fowl (Numida meleagris), resulting in 100% mortality of keets (n=290) within the first two weeks of age. All examined keets had enlarged liver, kidneys and spleen (5/5), and the affected tissues were submitted to histological and bacteriological examination. On histopathology, random paratyphoid nodules characterized by areas of necrosis with fibrin and a moderate infiltrate of macrophages and heterophils were observed in the liver. In kidneys, discrete areas of necrosis associated with moderate multifocal infiltrates of lymphocytes, and plasma cells were observed. In the spleen, a moderate infiltrate of macrophages was noticed. Isolation of colonies suggestive of S. Pullorum from liver and spleen was performed in selective agars and, after biochemical tests, confirmed by specific duplex-PCR. The antimicrobial susceptibility test of the isolated strain revealed resistance to only sulfamethoxazole + trimethoprim among the tested antimicrobials. The S. Pullorum isolate recovered in the present study was highly pathogenic to N. meleagris and may represent a risk to other avian species, including industrial poultry.

RESUMO: A pulorose é descrita mundialmente e é causada por Salmonella enterica subespécie enterica sorovar Gallinarum biovar Pullorum (S. Pullorum). A infecção por S. Pullorum é importante em aves comerciais, provocando doença sistêmica com altas taxas de mortalidade. Sua ocorrência requer notificação e quando diagnosticada em aves de criação comercial resulta na erradicação do plantel. O objetivo deste estudo foi relatar um surto grave de pulorose em filhotes de galinhas-d’Angola (Numida meleagris), resultando em 100% de mortalidade das aves (n=290) nas primeiras duas semanas de idade. Os pintinhos recebidos tinham hepato, espleno e nefromegalia (5/5). Os tecidos dos cinco indivíduos recebidos foram submetidos a exame histológico e bacteriológico. Na histopatologia, foram observados nódulos paratifoides aleatórios caracterizados por áreas de necrose com fibrina e infiltrado moderado de macrófagos e heterófilos no fígado. Nos rins, foram observadas áreas discretas de necrose associadas a infiltrados multifocais moderados de linfócitos e plasmócitos. No baço, foi observado infiltrado moderado de macrófagos. O isolamento de colônias sugestivas de S. Pullorum de fígados e baços foi realizado em ágares seletivos e, após testes bioquímicos, confirmado por duplex-PCR específico. A susceptibilidade antimicrobiana da cepa isolada revelou resistência apenas ao sulfametoxazol + trimetoprim entre os antimicrobianos testados. O isolado de S. Pullorum recuperado no presente estudo foi altamente patogênico para N. meleagris e pode representar um risco para outras espécies de aves, incluindo aves industriais.

ABSTRACT Salmonellosis is an important gastrointestinal infection in humans and cause of foodborne outbreaks in the world. In this context, molecular characterization is essential to understand how the strains circulate. The aim of this study was to evaluate the genotypic distribution of S. Heidelberg according to the source of isolation. The genetic relatedness of the S. Heidelberg isolates was determined by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). The most prevalent pulsotypes of cluster A were BRJF6X01.006 (27/95 = 28,42%) related between 1995 and 2011 in broilers, poultry meat and poultry farms, meat product and human, and BRJF6X01.001 (21/95 = 22,10%) related between 2011 and 2017 in wild animals, broilers, poultry meat, poultry farms, meat product, animal feed, and pork meat. The pulsotype BRJF6X01.001 shows a high distribution in the environmental and productive chain. The degree of similarity between pulsotypes BRJF6X01.006 and BRJF6X01.001 is 88%. To ensure the safety of human and animal health, holistic approaches, including surveillance of Salmonella throughout the environment and in the production chain, together with control measures, are critical. As transmission of Salmonella from food producing animals to wildlife and to the environment is considered potential public health problem, information on the survival and persistence of Salmonella in the environment and in potential reservoirs is of considerable importance.

ABSTRACT The composting technique has been increasingly highlighted in poultry production units, as an efficient and low-cost solution for the destination of carcasses. The process is based on the accelerated decomposition of organic material under high temperatures, associated with eliminating pathogenic microorganisms. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and the time necessary for the elimination of Salmonella Gallinarum in carcasses of poultry submitted to the composting process. The composting was carried out following the models used in the field, and microbiological analysis was performed in five different periods: 45, 90, 120, 150 and 180-days after closing the composter. After 90 days of experiment and in the subsequent analysis, the elimination of the bacteria in 100% of the samples was verified, validating the composting process as an effective method for eliminating S. Gallinarum in poultry carcasses, when respecting the period necessary for the elimination of the bacteria and the good quality of the structure adopted for the process.

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to characterize the guinea pig production system in the Mocha canton, Ecuador. All 124 producers in the canton were surveyed. A population of 14 165 ± 130 guinea pigs was found, of which 85.5% are commercial lines and 14.5% are native. The most widely used breeding system was the Family-Commercial (up to 100 guinea pigs) with 50.8% of the producers, followed by the Commercial system (more than 100 guinea pigs) with 37.9%, and the Family system (up to 25 guinea pigs) with 11.3%. Breeding is done mostly by women (76.6%). The survey showed that 83.1% of the producers have received training courses on raising guinea pigs. The facilities in ponds are the most used (54.8%), followed by cages (31.5%) and mixed (13.7%). The facilities are cleaned monthly (67.8%), biweekly (28.2%) or weekly (4.0%). Guinea pigs are mostly marketed biweekly (66.1%) in the local market. The most frequent pathologies are salmonellosis (63.7%) and lice (83.1%).

RESUMEN El objetivo del estudio fue caracterizar el sistema de producción cavícola en el cantón Mocha, Ecuador. El estudio se hizo con base a encuestas a los 124 productores del cantón. Se encontró una población de 14 165 ± 130 cuyes, de los cuales, el 85.5% son líneas comerciales y el 14.5% son nativos. El sistema de crianza más utilizado es el Familiar-Comercial (hasta 100 cuyes) con 50.8%, seguido del sistema Comercial (más de 100 cuyes) con 37.9% y el sistema Familiar (hasta 25 cuyes) con 11.3%. La crianza se realiza mayormente por las mujeres (76.6%). El 83.1% de los productores han recibido cursos de capacitación sobre la crianza de cuyes. Las instalaciones en pozas son las más utilizadas (54.8%), seguido de jaulas (31.5%) y mixtas (13.7%). Las instalaciones se limpian mensualmente (67.8%), quincenalmente (28.2%) o semanalmente (4.0%). Los cuyes se comercializan mayormente en forma quincenal (66.1%) en el mercado local. Las patologías más frecuentes son la salmonelosis (63.7%) y los piojos (83.1%).

RESUMO: Os javalis europeus (Sus scrofa) são considerados uma espécie exótica invasora em todo o mundo. As invasões de javalis são uma preocupação crescente de saúde pública, pois os javalis podem representar um importante reservatório de patógenos zoonóticos, incluindo bactérias do gênero Salmonella. O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar a prevalência e os sorovares de Salmonella spp. em javalis de vida livre caçados legalmente no Estado de São Paulo, Brasil, e a suscetibilidade dessa Salmonella spp. aos antimicrobianos. Amostras fecais e linfonodos mesentéricos foram adquiridos de 63 javalis. A prevalência de Salmonella spp. em javalis selvagens foi de 9,5% (6/63; intervalo de confiança: 4,4% - 19,2%). Seis sorovares foram isolados: S. enterica subsp. enterica ser. 4,5,12:-:1,2, S. enterica ser. Cerro, S. enterica ser. Madelia, S. enterica ser. Typhimurium, S. enterica ser. I (4,5,12:i:-) e S. enterica ser. Muenster. As análises de resistência antimicrobiana de Salmonella spp. evidenciaram que a maioria dos sorovares era pansensível aos antimicrobianos testados. Apenas S. enterica ser. Typhimurium e S. enterica ser. Muenster mostraram um padrão de resistência a pelo menos um antimicrobiano analisado. A saber, este estudo é o primeiro relato da prevalência e de sorovares de Salmonella spp. em javalis de vida livre no Estado de São Paulo, Brasil. Os resultados indicaram baixa prevalência com variabilidade de sorovares de Salmonella, com algum padrão de resistência antimicrobiana. Este estudo destaca o papel potencial dos javalis como portadores de Salmonella spp. e pode representar um risco para os animais domésticos e selvagens, bem como para os humanos.

ABSTRACT: European wild boars (Sus scrofa) are considered exotic invasive species worldwide. Invasions of wild boars are a growing public health concern, as wild boars may represent an important reservoir of zoonotic pathogens, including bacteria of the genus Salmonella. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and serovars of Salmonella spp. in free-ranging wild boars legally hunted in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, and the susceptibility of those Salmonella spp. to antimicrobials. Fecal samples and mesenteric lymph nodes were acquired from 63 wild boars. The prevalence of Salmonella spp. in free-ranging wild boars was 9.5 % (6/63; confidence interval: 4.4 % - 19.2 %). Six serovars were isolated: S. enterica subsp. enterica ser. 4,5,12:-:1,2, S. enterica ser. Cerro, S. enterica ser. Madelia, S. enterica ser. Typhimurium, S. enterica ser. I (4,5,12:i:-) and S. enterica ser. Muenster. Analysis of antimicrobial resistance of Salmonella spp. showed that the majority of serovars were fully susceptible to the tested antimicrobials. Only S. enterica ser. Typhimurium and S. enterica ser. Muenster showed a resistance pattern to at least one antimicrobial analyzed. To our knowledge, this study is the first report the prevalence and serovars of Salmonella spp. in free-ranging wild boars in the State of São Paulo, Brazil. Results indicate a low prevalence with variability of Salmonella serovars, with some pattern of antimicrobial resistance. This study highlights the potential role of wild boars as carriers of Salmonella and could pose a risk to wild and domestic animals as well as humans.

ABSTRACT Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) is a dominant serotype among non-typhoidal Salmonella which renders poultry products unsafe for human consumption. Due to frequent reporting of egg associated outbreaks, broiler breeder flocks are understudied although farm environment present supporting conditions for the growth of SE. In this study, two rapid detection techniques for SE were compared in terms of analytical sensitivity and the extent of SE contamination in broiler breeder farm environment was determined. Analytical sensitivity as limit of detection (LOD) was evaluated quantitatively for serotype specific PCR based on amplification of Sdf I gene and a commercially available sandwich ELISA for antigen detection. In triplicate experiments, tenfold serial dilutions of SE were prepared and tested with each technique. Using pure cultures, analytical sensitivity of PCR and ELISA were found to be 18.6 CFU/ml and 2.77×105 CFU/ml respectively. PCR (LOD, log 1.2) was found to be more sensitive and rapid than ELISA (LOD, log 5.4). Environmental swab samples (n = 260) were collected from 22 hen houses representing 8 broiler breeder farms located in and around Lahore and Sheikhupura districts of Punjab province. From each hen house swab samples were collected from litter, nests, feeders, drinkers, fans, pads, ceiling, walls and walkways. Following selective enrichment, pooled swab samples were subjected to PCR. Results showed that 36.3 % (8/22) hen houses were detected positive for SE. These findings suggest improvement in farm biosecurity measures and advocate implementation of integrated Salmonellosis control programs in broiler breeder houses to minimize carcass contamination.

ABSTRACT Poultry products may be a source of foodborne human salmonellosis. The use of alternatives to antimicrobials that are not harmful to humans may reduce the presence of Salmonella spp. in poultry production. Among the products used, organic acids stand out. In the present study, three different organic acid (OA) blends were evaluated for the control of Salmonella Heidelberg (SH) in commercial broilers. Day-old chicks (n = 114) were randomly assigned to four treatments, with three replicates of 12 birds each. Birds in treatments A and B received SCFA (0.2mL/L) and SCFA + MCFA (0.2mL/L), respectively, in the drinking water, while birds in treatment C received SCFA + MCFA in the feed (2g/Kg of feed). Birds from treatment D did not receive OAs (control group). At 8 days of age, each bird was orally inoculated with SH at 108 CFU/mL, and cloacal swabs and SH enumeration of the cecal content were performed 24-, 48-, and 72-hours post-inoculation (hpi). The results show a reduction of both SH shedding and counts in the birds fed OAs at all pi times relative to the control birds. Fecal shedding was significantly lower in the OA-treated groups compared with the control group. As for SH presence in the cecum, significant differences were detected between groups C and D at 24 and 72 hpi, and between groups B and D at 72 hpi. The results of this study indicate that the use of feeding OAs to broilers may contribute to reduce the incidence of SH in the poultry production chain, allowing better flock health management, provided an efficient biosecurity program is employed.

Abstract Salmonella Enteritidis is the major cause of foodborne salmonellosis affecting human health. The light emitting diodes (LEDs) is a novel approach to inactivate of the foodborne pathogens. The aim of this study was to determine the antibacterial effect of 405 nm LEDs illumination on S. Enteritidis and S. Enteritidis PT4. The irradiance of the 405 nm LEDs was 27.7 mW/cm2. Bacterial cultures suspended in tryptic soy broth were illuminated by 10-watt LEDs at a distance of 4.5 cm for 24 hours at 4 °C, 25 °C and 37 °C. Approximately 7-log reduction in colony forming unit (CFU) counts of both S. Enteritidis and S. Enteritidis PT4 at each temperature were observed following exposure after 7.5 hours to the LEDs, concluding that temperature did not affect the inactivation of the bacteria. The decimal reduction times (D-values) for the serotypes ranged from 55.78 to 67.88 min at 4, 25 and 37 °C after 405 nm LEDs illumination. No significant difference in D-values was observed among both the serotypes and temperatures, except for S. Enteritidis which had lower D-value at 4 °C. The LEDs technology has shown antibacterial efficacy and can be implemented in the food processing for reducing S. Enteritidis.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar, por meio de um questionário, a percepção dos consumidores que se alimentam fora de casa acerca dos perigos de doenças veiculadas por alimentos (DVAs). Obtiveram-se 1.515 respostas, com a maioria dos consumidores assim caracterizados: Ensino Médio (27,3%) ou superior (29,5%), idade entre 18 e 29 anos (52,3%) e solteiros (57,8%). Em uma verificação mais específica, identificou-se que os consumidores utilizam restaurantes (64,5%) e elegem o estabelecimento principalmente em função da limpeza e atendimento (95,1%). A maioria consome carne (96,7%), com destaque para a bovina (30,1%), embora os consumidores considerem o pescado mais saudável (58,5%). No entendimento sobre as DVAs, 91,1% dos consumidores acreditam que as carnes podem veicular doenças, com destaque para a carne suína, com 89% das associações. Entretanto, também consideram as verduras e/ou os legumes (89%), a água (85,7%) e alimentos orgânicos (71,4%) como possíveis transmissores de doenças. A salmonelose (90,5%) é considerada a DVA mais importante e 99,1% dos respondentes entendem que o alimento pode ser contaminado pelo manipulador. Os entrevistados acreditam também que verduras e frutas possam conter agrotóxicos (98,7%), enquanto alimentos de origem animal possam ter resíduos de antibióticos (86,1%). Concluímos que existe a necessidade da criação de um plano estratégico educacional para o melhor entendimento dos consumidores sobre alimentação fora do ambiente domiciliar.

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate, through a questionnaire, the perception of consumers who eat outside the home in relation to the dangers of diseases transmitted by food. This work also aimed to obtain data that can be used in the elaboration of an educational plan, aiming at aspects of disease prevention and improvements in the population's health. The questionnaire obtained a total of 1515 responses, in which most consumers were characterized by medium education (27.3%) or higher education (29.5%), aged between 18-29 years (52.3%) and singles (57.8%). In a more specific investigation, people routinely eat in restaurants (64.5%) and choose the establishment mainly due to cleanliness and service (95.1%). Most respondents consumed meat (96.7%), especially beef (30.1%), although consumers considered fish healthier (58.5%). Regarding the understanding of diseases transmitted by food, 91.1% of them have believed that meat can transmit diseases, thus being pork the most associated with this problem (89%). They also considered vegetables and / or legumes (89%), water (85.7%) and organic foods (71.4%) as possible transmitters of diseases. Salmonellosis (90.5%) is considered the most important diseases transmitted by food and 99.1% understood that food can be contaminated by the food handlers. They have also believed that vegetables and fruits may contain pesticides (98.7%) and antibiotics residue in foods of animal origin (86.1%). It could be inferred that there is a need to create a strategic educational plan to better understand consumers about food outside the home environment.

ABSTRACT Salmonellosis ranks among the most frequently reported zoonosis worldwide and is often associated with foodborne outbreaks. Since the 1950s, the distribution of Salmonella serotypes in Sao Paulo State, Brazil, has been documented and periodically reported. In this study, we updated the data on the distribution of Salmonella serotypes received in our reference laboratory, isolated from human infections and nonhuman sources, from 2004 to 2020. In that period, a total of 9,014 Salmonella isolates were analyzed, of which 3,553 (39.4%) were recovered from human samples, mainly of stool (65%) and blood (25.6%), and 5,461 (60.6%) were isolated from nonhuman origins, such as animals (47.2%), food (27.7%) and animal environments (18.6%). In human isolates, a total of 104 serotypes were identified and the most frequent ones were Enteritidis, Typhimurium, S . I. 4,[5],12:i:-, Dublin and Typhi. A consistent reduction of the Enteritidis proportion was observed over the years. Among the 156 serotypes identified in isolates with nonhuman origins, Enteritidis, Mbandaka, Typhimurium, Agona and Anatum were ranked as the top five Salmonella serotypes; in more recent years, S . Heidelberg has increased in frequency. Although with different proportions, the top 10 prevalent serotypes were identified in both human and nonhuman origins, underscoring the role of animals, food products and environment as reservoirs of Salmonella with potential to cause human salmonellosis.