Space-time patterns of Campylobacter spp. colonization in broiler flocks, 2002-2006

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Epidemiology
• Food Safety
• Microbial Ecology

Background:

• Campylobacter spp. are a leading cause of bacterial gastroenteritis globally.
• Poultry, particularly broiler chickens, are a major reservoir for Campylobacter.
• Understanding spatial and temporal patterns of Campylobacter colonization in broiler flocks is crucial for effective control strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the space-time patterns of Campylobacter spp. colonization in Norwegian broiler flocks.
• To identify geographical areas and time periods with a higher risk of Campylobacter positive broiler flocks.
• To analyze the spatial scale of Campylobacter risk factor aggregation.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 16,054 broiler flock Campylobacter spp. status data from 580 farms (2002-2006).
• Generation of spatial relative risk maps and space-time cluster maps using spatial scan statistics.
• Modified K-function analysis to assess spatial clustering at different distances.

Main Results:

• Consistent identification of specific geographical areas with elevated Campylobacter spp. risk in broiler flocks, particularly during summer months.
• Significant spatial clustering of Campylobacter spp. detected at distances between 2.5 and 4 km within years.
• Evidence of risk factors operating at both broader geographical and narrower local scales.

Conclusions:

• Geographical and temporal risk factors, potentially related to climate, landscape, or geography, influence Campylobacter spp. colonization in Norwegian broiler flocks.
• Further research is needed to elucidate these region- and time-specific risk factors.
• The presence of clustering at shorter distances suggests localized risk factors contributing to Campylobacter spp. presence in broiler flocks.