Isolation and molecular confirmation of Non-Typhoidal Salmonella (NTS) from desi chicken farms in Tamil Nadu: Significance in public health

The present research work was conducted to study the prevalence of NTS (Non-typhoidal Salmonella) in desi chicken farms in Namakkal district of Tamil Nadu state, India. For the study, fresh faecal samples were collected from 30 desi chicken farms located in Namakkal district. The samples were subjected to cultural examination for isolation and identification of Non-typhoidal Salmonella. . The samples found to be positive in cultural isolation were subjected to molecular screening by PCR for confirmation. In the present study, out of 30 farms investigated, samples from seven farms were found to be positive for Non-typhoidal Salmonella and all the positive samples were confirmed to be S. typhimurium. . The study indicates that small scale poultry production with desi chicken is also becoming source of NTS infection in human beings apart from organized commercial poultry sector. Creating awareness on prevalence of NTS in desi chicken and giving trainings to meat handlers and butchers regarding hygienic slaughter and food safety will minimize contamination of desi chicken meat with non-typhoidal Salmonella. .