Residual contamination and biofilm formation by opportunistic pathogens Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa in poultry houses isolated from drinking water systems, fans, and floors.

Abstract

T HIS study demonstrated that some bacteria could form biofilms and detect microbial residues. Two broiler housing facilities at Giza Governorate were investigated for microbiological status during production cycle days 7, 21, and 31, and after disinfection. 27 water samples were taken: 18 using the sponge stick method from water lines, 3 from major water sources, and 6 from the cooling pad water. Additionally, 25 dust samples were collected from fans and house floors. The samples were analyzed for aerobic bacteria, coliforms, pseudomonas, fungi, and yeast. After disinfection, 18 swab samples were taken from water lines, floors, and fans to assess residual microbial counts and biofilm. Generally, the counts of microorganisms were higher at the entrance of water lines compared to the end. Total colony counts (TCC) were 342 and 23.99 CFU per 10 6 /20 cm2, total coliform counts (TCFC) were 36 and 0.97 CFU per 10 6 /20 cm2, pseudomonas counts were 257.50 and 12.61 CFU per 10 6 /20 cm2, and fungal counts (TFC) were 10.65 and 1.97 CFU per 10 5 /20 cm2, respectively. Additionally, the highest number of colonies was discovered at 31 days (3,375 and 2,145 CFU per 10 6 g from the floors and fans, respectively). After disinfection, a variety of bacteria were found; the predominant bacteria were identified using VITEK 2, and they included Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Proteus mirabilis. Forty-five percent of the isolates that created a moderate biofilm were P. aeruginosa and K. pneumoniae, which could pose a risk to animal health in subsequent production cycles.