Poultry in Poland as Carrier.

INTRODUCTION

The study was conducted to investigate the prevalence and genetic diversity of spp. in poultry in Poland and estimate possible transmission to humans.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Molecular diagnostic methods followed by sequencing and strain isolation were used on cloacal/faecal swabs collected from 182 apparently healthy poultry flocks including chickens, turkeys, ducks, and geese. Serum samples obtained from people exposed (study group) and non-exposed (control group) to birds were tested by complement fixation test to acquire data on spp. antibody level.

RESULTS

Overall, 15.9% of the tested flocks were -positive and three spp. were identified. Predominant chlamydial agent found was occurring in 65.5% of all positive poultry flocks and in 73.0% of positive chicken flocks. The sequences from four chicken flocks were assigned to , whereas was confirmed in one duck and one goose flock. The analysis of A variable domains revealed at least nine genetic variants of . Chlamydial antibodies were detected in 19.2% of human serum samples in the study group in comparison with 10.8% in the controls.

CONCLUSION

The obtained results confirm that chlamydiae are common among chicken flocks in Poland with as a dominant species. Moreover, the presence of in chickens is reported here for the first time. Further investigation should focus on possible zoonotic transmission of and as well as potential pathogenic effects on birds' health and poultry production.