QUATERNARY AMMONIUM THERMONEBULIZATION: A STRATEGY TO SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCE ENTEROBACTÉRIA IN COMMERCIAL POULTRY HOUSES DURING SANITARY VACATIONS

Abstract

The increasing microbial resistance in intensive poultry farming highlights the need for effective strategies for sanitary control, minimizing the use of antimicrobials. This study evaluated the efficacy of thermal fogging with fourth-generation quaternary ammonium in reducing the load of enterobacteria in commercial poultry houses during the sanitary downtime. Microbiological samples were collected before and after the application of thermal fogging on litter, wall, and ceiling surfaces in nine poultry houses from four different producers, using quantitative bacterial count analyses (ISO 21528-2/2017). The thermal fogging was applied for 20 minutes with the environment closed, using equipment capable of reaching 380°C to ensure the disinfectant’s integrity. The results showed a significant reduction in bacterial load, especially on the litter (average reduction of 89.5%) and walls (65%), while the reduction on the ceiling was not statistically significant. Statistical efficacy was confirmed by the area under the curve analysis, indicating higher efficiency on surfaces with greater microbial load and greater contact with the disinfectant. The findings reinforce that thermal fogging, combined with rigorous prior cleaning protocols, is a promising tool for biosecurity in poultry facilities, reducing sanitary risks and antibiotic use. However, caution is advised regarding the careful management of biocide use to avoid microbial resistance, recommending integrated biosecurity practices and continuous monitoring.