Cross-infection of chicks by airborne transmission of Salmonella enteritidis PT4

Airborne cross-infection by Salmonella enteritidis PT4 strains was demonstrated between sets of orally infected 1-d-old chicks and identical uninfected control chicks. Low numbers of Salm. enteritidis were detected in the air of the rooms housing the chicks. Sentinel mice within the rooms did not become infected. This study demonstrates that low levels of airborne Salm. enteritidis are a potential source of cross-infection in poultry houses.