Isolation and Identification of Pasteurella multocida from backyard poultry in Golestan Province, Iran

Avian pasteurellosis, a highly contagious and severe bacterial disease of wild and domestic birds, causing mortality and important devastating economic losses. This cross sectional study was performed to isolate and identify pasteurella multocida in backyard poultry. For the purpose of the study, a total of 350 pharyngeal swab specimens collected from backyard birds suspected of illness during two years in Golestan Province, Iran. Samples were packaged in modified stuart's transport medium, and transferred to the Razi vaccine and Serum Research Institute for bacteriological examination. Out of 350 samples, two isolates were identified as p. multocida on the basis of bacterial cultures, morphological and biochemical characteristics. The isolates were subjected to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the detection of KMT1 species specific gene fragment. According to the results of PCR assay none isolates have been confirmed as p. multocida. Since Backyard birds may serve as source of public health and economically important bacteria, implementation of a pasteurellosis surveillance program and biosecurity measures will be helpful to develop disease control measures in the future.