Airborne Microbial Contents in Two Types of Swine Confinement Buildings in Quebec

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Abstract
Airborne microorganisms were isolated with a sampler in two types of swine confinement buildings (farrowing units and fattening units). Respirable (particles <5 µm) and total dust fractions were obtained. Samplings were repeated every 2 weeks for a total of 6 samplings per unit between January and April. The predominant microorganisms isolated were bacteria (up to 1.25×106 CFU/m3) with an important fraction in the respirable size range (up to 0.5×106 CFU/m3). Only small quantities of grain-negative bacteria, yeasts, and molds were found. Identification of the colonies isolated revealed a great diversity of microorganisms present in the air of the different buildings. Enterobacter agglomerans, Moraxella, Acinetobacter calcoaceticus, and Pseudomonas were the most frequently identified bacteria. Scopulariopsis, Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Candida were the most numerous fungi. Faenia rectivirgula, the causative agent of farmer's lung, was not a major contaminant. The results show some differences in airborn...