A recent report issued by the UK government has confirmed long-term advancements in combating Salmonella among laying hens.
The latest publication by The Animal and Plant Health Agency chronicles the state of Salmonella in animals and feed across Great Britain for the year 2024, highlighting the continued efforts of the poultry industry to address this persistent challenge.
Under the National Control Programme (NCP), a target has been set to ensure that no more than 2% of laying hen flocks yield positive results for regulated Salmonella serovars annually. Impressively, the overall prevalence in Great Britain stands at 0.89%, even with a slight uptick from the 2023 figures.
In 2024, 33 laying hen flocks tested positive for Salmonella, marking a 13.8% rise from the 29 flocks recorded in 2023. Nonetheless, this figure is more than halved compared to the 2008 baseline when the program was first implemented.
Notably, only 0.24% of the flocks showed a positive detection for regulated serovars, a well-maintained figure well below the mandated 2% limit.
S. Enteritidis and S. Typhimurium Trends
The report reveals shifting dynamics regarding regulated serovars. S. Enteritidis, previously a major concern, was detected in only 2 flocks in 2024. This is a decline from 3 detected cases in 2023 and a significant drop from a peak of 14 in 2019.
This downward trend can largely be attributed to effective vaccination efforts and strategic interventions. On the other hand, S. Typhimurium increased to 7 flocks compared to just 2 in 2023. Although still within acceptable limits, this rise serves as a reminder of the pathogen’s adaptability, necessitating renewed focus on management practices. Encouragingly, no cases of monophasic S. Typhimurium were identified in 2024.
Regional analysis indicated that Scotland reported no positives, whereas England recorded a prevalence of 0.26% and Wales 0.46%. These figures highlight the necessity for localized monitoring and biosecurity strategies.
Concerns Surrounding Antimicrobial Resistance
The report also raises alarms regarding antimicrobial resistance within the sector. Even minimal levels of Salmonella can pose long-term risks if resistant strains proliferate. Ongoing vigilance, responsible antibiotic usage, and ongoing refinement of pest control and vaccination methods are essential for continuing success.
Celebrating Achievements in Control
The results from 2024 underscore both the achievements and vulnerabilities in Salmonella control. The British Free Range Egg Producers Association (Bfrepa) emphasized that the substantial reduction since 2008 signifies a landmark accomplishment, reflecting the dedication of producers, rearers, regulators, and veterinarians alike.
While specific serovar fluctuations may occur, the overarching trends remain promising. Bfrepa reiterated that “British eggs and poultry products are among the safest in Europe,” highlighting the importance of ongoing investment in biosecurity for the industry.
Summary of Regulated Serovars
In terms of the 9 flocks testing positive for regulated serovars, the breakdown is as follows:
- S. Enteritidis: 2 flocks (down from 3 in 2023 and 14 in 2019)
- S. Typhimurium: 7 flocks (up from 2 in 2023)
- Monophasic S. Typhimurium: 0 flocks (down from 1 in 2023)
The prevalence remains significantly below the set 2% target:
- Overall in Great Britain: 0.24% (9 out of 3,700 flocks)
- England: 0.26%
- Wales: 0.46%
- Scotland: 0.00%
Overview of Non-Regulated Serovars
The report also monitored several non-regulated serovars, yielding the following results:
- 14 different non-regulated serovars were found in 24 flocks (down from 17 in 2023)
- Common examples include:
- Salmonella 61:k:1,5,(7) (found in 6 flocks, typically sheep-adapted)
- S. Newport (found in 4 flocks, consistently detected yearly)
- New detections in 2024 include S. Chester, S. Corvallis, and S. Havana.
Monitoring Pullets in Rear
In an additional reassuring development, no pullets in rear flocks tested positive for Salmonella in 2024, continuing a favorable downward trend. The last detected case in young flocks was recorded back in 2018.
Final Notes on Overall Prevalence
Overall, a Salmonella prevalence of 0.89% was reported, a drop from 1.13% in 2022. This reflects positively on Great British producers and pullet rearers, showcasing their commitment to controlling Salmonella since the NCP’s rollout in 2008.
The 2024 report concludes with a reminder that “the prevalence of Salmonella in laying hens in Great Britain remains significantly lower than in 2004 and 2005,” underscoring the long-term success in managing risk within the egg industry.
