Chlamydophila psittaci infections in turkeys: overview of economic and zoonotic importance and vaccine development.

We provide evidence on the multifactorial infectious etiology of respiratory disease in turkeys. Although Chlamydophila psittaci is difficult to diagnose, this entity should not be neglected in veterinary diagnostic laboratories. The present results suggest a pathogenic interplay between chlamydophila, avian metapneumovirus and Ornithobacterium rhinotracheale. Additionally, we demonstrate zoonotic transmission from turkeys to humans. Psittacosis due to contact with poultry probably occurs more often than is thought and the infection can be asymptomatic or symptomatic. There is no commercial C. psittaci vaccine available and currently the best option is an experimental major outer membrane protein-based DNA vaccine. Copyright 2009 Prous Science, S.A.U. or its licensors. All rights reserved.