The National Poultry Improvement Plan targets which Salmonella serotypes in breeder flocks?

• A. Pullorum, Gallinarum, and Enteritidis
• B. All Salmonella serotypes
• C. Typhimurium only
• D. None

Answer: (A)

The National Poultry Improvement Plan focuses on preventing the spread of specific Salmonella serotypes through breeder flocks because these serotypes pose the most risk for vertical transmission to offspring and for human illness linked to eggs and poultry. The serotypes targeted are Pullorum, Gallinarum, and Enteritidis. Pullorum and Gallinarum cause serious disease in birds (pullorum disease and fowl typhoid) and can be vertically transmitted from breeders to chicks, so certification helps keep breeder stock free of these pathogens. Enteritidis is a major human health concern associated with eggs and poultry, so including it in breeder-flock testing helps reduce foodborne illness. The plan does not require testing for all Salmonella serotypes, and Typhimurium, while common, is not the focus of this certification.