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Egg transmission of two strains of Mycoplasma gallisepticum in chickens
Abstract:
The egg transmissibility of strains F and R of Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) was studied in 53 pullets by isolating MG from the eggs and embryos. MG was isolated at rates of 3.19% and 1.59% from the eggs of hens exposed by aerosol to the R or F strain, respectively. However, MG was isolated at rates of 0.19% and 0.00% from the eggs of chickens exposed by eye drop to the R or F strain, respectively. A statistically significant reduction in egg production was observed during the first 4 weeks postexposure in the group exposed to the R strain of MG by aerosol. An unexpected finding was significantly lower fertility of eggs from all MG-infected groups.
Insights
Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) spreads through eggs differently based on exposure route. Aerosol exposure led to higher egg transmission and reduced egg production, while eye drop exposure showed minimal transmission.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Science
- Avian Health
- Microbiology
Background:
- Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) is a significant pathogen affecting poultry health.
- Understanding MG transmission routes is crucial for disease control in commercial flocks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the egg transmissibility of two Mycoplasma gallisepticum strains (F and R).
- To assess the impact of different exposure routes (aerosol vs. eye drop) on MG transmission and egg production.
Main Methods:
- 53 pullets were experimentally exposed to MG strains F and R via aerosol or eye drop.
- Mycoplasma gallisepticum was isolated from eggs and embryos to determine transmission rates.
- Egg production and fertility were monitored post-exposure.
Main Results:
- MG was isolated from eggs at higher rates following aerosol exposure (3.19% for strain R, 1.59% for strain F) compared to eye drop exposure (0.19% for strain R, 0.00% for strain F).
- Aerosol exposure to strain R significantly reduced egg production in the first 4 weeks post-exposure.
- Significantly lower fertility rates were observed in eggs from all MG-infected groups.
Conclusions:
- The route of Mycoplasma gallisepticum exposure significantly influences its transmissibility through eggs.
- Aerosol exposure poses a greater risk for egg contamination and reproductive losses in poultry.
- MG infection negatively impacts fertility across different exposure scenarios.