ABSTRACT
The prevalence and risk factors for Campylobacter spp. colonization of broiler flocks and broiler carcass contamination in Greek slaughterhouses were investigated. Over a 14-month period, a pool of 10 ceca and 5 neck skin samples from chicken carcasses were collected from each of 142 batches of broiler flocks slaughtered in 3 different slaughterhouses. Information on potential risk factors for Campylobacter infection in broilers was collected by an on-farm interview and linked according to the Campylobacter contamination status of broiler flocks and differences in farm characteristics and management practices identified from questionnaires. Campylobacter spp. was isolated from 73.94% and 70.42% of ceca (95% CI 65.92-80.94) and carcasses (95% CI 62.19-77.78), respectively. A significant correlation (p < 0.001) between the presence of Campylobacter spp. in broiler ceca and contamination of carcasses was found, suggesting the spread of the microorganism on the skin of carcasses during the slaughtering procedure. A multiple logistic regression showed the disinfection of the poultry house being conducted by unskilled personnel (odds ratio [OR] » = 3.983) as a significant risk factor (p < 0.05) and the use of straw litter as bedding material (OR » = 0.170) and closure of windows during the intervals of production cycles (OR » = 0.396) as significant protective factors (p < 0.05) for broiler flock contamination. These results are important and help further the understanding of the epidemiology of Campylobacter spp. derived from poultry in Greece.