THIRTY -FIFTH ANNUAL REPORT OF PULLORUM 



DISEASE ERADICATION IN MASSACHUSETTS 



1954-55 



H. Van Roekel, Miriam K. Clarke, 

 C. F. Sinyser, and G. H. Snoeyenbos 



INTRODUCTION 



Results for the 1954-55 testing season reveal that a total of 386 flocks, repre- 

 senting 1,204,232 samples, was tested, slightly less than that of the previous season. 

 The definite increase in the percentage of positive tests was due largely to the testing 

 of a few flocks that revealed a high percentage of reactors. Pullorum reactors were 

 detected in eight flocks for the season. This number is small compared to the 

 total number (386) of flocks tested. However, it is hoped that in the not too distant 

 future no infected flocks will be found. It is encouraging that, of the total birds 

 tested, 96.16 percent were found in 100-percent tested nonreacting flocks. 



The laboratory appreciates the fine cooperation of the majority of flock owners 

 in striving towards a common objective, the eradication of pullorum disease. The 

 cooperation of the flock owner is, of course, a primary essential in the eradication 

 of the disease. It is hoped that all flock o^vners and other agencies will continue 

 with earnest desire and concerted eff"ort to eliminate the disease completely from 

 Massachusetts flocks. 



We also wish to express our appreciation for the splendid cooperation received 

 from the Extension Service, Massachusetts Department of Agriculture, and other 

 agencies. 



SUMMARY OF SERVICE RENDERED 



Flocks tested 386 



Chicken 311 



Turkey 51 



Pheasant 24 



Number of tests 1,204,232 



Chickens : 



Routine 1,123,498 



Experimental 46,324 



Fowl other than chickens: 



Routine 34,348 



Experimental 62 



Owners receiving necropsy service 35 



Necropsies of reacting birds 65 



Fowl Typhoid Tests: 



Number of flocks 13 



Number of tests 10,912 



Number of positive tests 94 



