Integrated Investigation of Enterococcus cecorum Prevalence, Transmission Routes, Predisposition Factors, Pathogenic Mechanisms, and Mitigation Strategies in Broilers

Central Queensland University

  • Project code: PRO-017656

  • Project stage: Current

  • Project start date: Tuesday, June 18, 2024

  • Project completion date: Saturday, October 30, 2027

  • National Priority: CME-Priority 2-Enhancing chicken biosecurity, health, and welfare

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Summary

EC is recognised as an emerging pathogen in poultry, specifically in broiler and layer chickens. It has been associated with various clinical conditions and diseases, primarily affecting birds’ skeletal and musculoskeletal systems. Commensal intestinal strains can become pathogenic under certain conditions. This pathogen causes several clinical conditions in poultry resulting in leg problems, lameness, and joint infections. EC is now recognised emerging pathogen in both broiler and layer chickens. Improving the diagnosis, treatment and management of EC outbreaks is urgent unmet need.

Our preliminary data suggests that Enterococcus is:

more prevalent in breeders and male birds

Program

Chicken Meat

Research Organisation

Central Queensland University