Transmission of Salmonella, Yersinia Enterocolitica, Campylobacter, MRSA and Antimicrobial Resistance within Swine Breeding Pyramids in Ontario

Objective

<OL> <LI> To investigate whether the farms supplying replacement breeding stock are a source for the introduction of Salmonella, Yersinia enterocolitica, Campylobacter, and MRSA to commercial pig farms,

<LI> To determine if the antimicrobial resistance patterns of these pathogens are similar for the herds supplying breeding stock and the farms purchasing the animals,

<LI>To determine the risk factors associated with the presence of foodborne pathogens and multidrug resistance on commercial farms.

More information

Expected Benefits:
If this research proves that replacement gilts are a source of foodborne pathogens including multi-drug resistant pathogens, then appropriate biosecurity and control measures may be considered to reduce the spread of these disease agents.
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Reducing the prevalence of foodborne pathogens and in particular multi-drug resistant bacteria will reduce contamination through food chain and increase consumer confidence.

<P> For more information, please visit the <a href="http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/research/foodsafety/index.html" target="_blank">Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food & Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) Food Safety Research Program</a>.

Investigators

Friendship, Robert

Institution

University of Guelph

Start date

2009

End date

2010

Funding Source

Ontario Min. of Agriculture Food and Rural Affairs

Project number

SF6078