By Tim Johnson, Associate Professor at the University of Minnesota Editor's note: This is part 2 of a 3-part series written for Gobbles, the official publication of the Minnesota Turkey Growers Association. E. coli-associated diseases are perhaps the most recognized, yet least understood of all the bacterial diseases of turkeys. The disease is collectively referred to as colibacillosis, but includes many syndromes ranging from skin infections through systemic disease involving bloodstream infection. Most producers are very good at identifying birds impacted by E. coli. However, the underlying issues regarding how and why disease occurred are complex. 1. E. coli is mainly a secondary disease, but… It is true that the majority of birds impacted by E. coli disease are the result of some other primary insult (i.e., a viral pathogen, air quality issues, or other stress issues). However, not all E. coli are created equal. Most E. coli from turkeys are “commensal,” meaning they
Poultry and animal health scientists and educators at University of Minnesota Extension provide up to date, research-based information on avian health and production in the Midwest.