Risk factors for Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica persistence in broiler-chicken flocks on Reunion Island.

This study was conducted to identify the main risk factors for Salmonella spp. persistence in broiler flocks in Reunion Island. Seventy broiler farms were surveyed from March 2016 to June 2018. Samples of fresh droppings were collected using gauze socks, and a questionnaire was completed with the farmers. Persistence was defined as an infection with the same serovar before and after cleaning and disinfection (C/D) of poultry houses. Salmonella spp. was found to persist on 27% of the farms. Cleaning concrete surrounding areas (OR = 0.23) and disinfecting silos (OR = 0.17) reduced the risk of pathogen persistence. An analysis of infections of pests found in the vicinity of the farms confirmed their role in the persistence of Salmonella spp. Fifteen percent of the pests were infected and the presence of mealworms in poultry litter (OR = 6.69) was found to increase the risk of Salmonella spp. persistence. We conclude that improved cleaning-disinfection, sanitary preventive measures and pest control in the poultry sector are needed to avoid the persistence of Salmonella spp. on broiler farms.

Safe feeding practices for infants and young children.

OBJECTIVE: To review local and overseas experience of food asphyxia in children and to examine aspects of safe childhood eating practices. METHODOLOGY: Inpatient separation information data for childhood hospital admissions in South Australia were searched for episodes of food-induced airway obstruction and case records of the Department of Histopathology at the Women's and Children's Hospital were searched for cases of fatal food asphxia. RESULTS: While other forms of injury to young children appear to be declining in numbers, episodes caused by choking on food have remained relatively constant. The increase in average length of hospital stay (from 2.8 days in 1989-90 to 5.2 days in 1993-94) also suggests that the episodes have been more severe. Two fatal cases were also found. CONCLUSIONS: Choking due to food inhalation is a problem with potentially fatal consequences. Young children are particularly at risk as they have immature dentition and control of swallowing, and lack experience of food. Although young children should avoid potentially dangerous foods such as raw carrot sticks and raw apples, certain currently available information packages for parents recommend these foods.