The aerobiology of the environment around mechanically ventilated broiler sheds

Aim: To investigate the aerobiology of the environment around mechanically ventilated broiler sheds with the aim of understanding dispersion in the surrounding environment. Methods and Results: Aerosol samples were collected weekly on four different commercial broiler farms through the cycle of 55 days from 2005 to 2007. Samples were collected inside the shed and at varying distances from the sheds. Litter and dust from within the shed were also examined. Members of the genera Staphylococcus (and to a lesser extent Corynebacterium) dominated (106 CFU m-3) in the outside air at 20 m from the fan and were shown to decrease with distance. At distances of around 400 m, the levels of staphylococci/coryneforms returned to levels typical of those present before the placement of chickens. Escherichia coli levels were low (maximum 100 CFU m-3) at 20 m. Fungi were present at uniform levels across the broiler cycle. Conclusions: Staphylococci are the dominant organisms present in the air around mechanically ventilated broiler sheds and have the potential to act as an airborne 'marker organism'. Significant Impact of the Study: The outcomes of this study suggest that the impact of aerosols emitted from broiler sheds could be monitored and managed by examining the levels of staphylococci/coryneforms.