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<OL> <LI> Develop improved methods for detecting Salmonella enteritidis (SE) infections in laying flocks and SE contamination in eggs. <LI>Characterize how, where, when and in what numbers egg contamination by E occurs. <LI>Reduce airborne dust and SE in poultry hatching cabinets and breeder houses using an electrostatic space charge system (ESCS), and determine the mechanisms by which ESCS kills airborne and surface SE.
Chickens will be infected with a range of doses of various SE strains by oral inoculation, horizontal contact with infected birds or contaminated environments, or exposure to contaminated air sources. Eggs and egg fractions will be experimentally contaminated with SE. Samples will be subjected to bacteriological and serological testing to evaluate the efficacy of SE detection technologies and to characterize SE dposition in eggs. Optimum designs for use of the ESCS to reduce dust and pathogens including SE in poultry hatchers will be determined in cooperation with commercial poultry integrators and breeders. The mechanism by which the ESCS inactivates airborne and surface SE, and biofilms, and the associated LD50 dose, will be determined. Effectivenessof the ESCS for reducing egg contamination and airborne transmission of SE will be determined in a small breeder house. Previously was 6612-42000-035-00D (05/01).