Coccidiosis is a common and economically significant disease in poultry, caused by the parasite Eimeria.
Types of Coccidiosis:
1. Intestinal coccidiosis (E. acervulina, E. maxima, E. brunetti)
2. Caecal coccidiosis (E. tenella)
3. Liver coccidiosis (E. adenoeides)
Symptoms:
1. Diarrhea
2. Blood in droppings
3. Weight loss
4. Reduced feed intake
5. Decreased egg production
6. Increased mortality
Life Cycle of Eimeria:
1. Sporulation: Oocysts release sporozoites.
2. Invasion: Sporozoites infect intestinal cells.
3. Schizogony: Parasites multiply.
4. Gamogony: Parasites mature.
5. Oocyst formation: Parasites release oocysts.
Risk Factors:
1. Age (young birds more susceptible)
2. Density (overcrowding)
3. Nutrition (poor quality feed)
4. Hygiene (poor sanitation)
5. Stress
6. Vaccination status
Diagnosis:
1. Clinical signs
2. Lesion scoring
3. Microscopy (oocyst detection)
4. PCR (DNA detection)
5. Serology (antibody detection)
Control Measures:
1. Vaccination
2. Anticoccidial drugs (e.g., ionophores, synthetic chemicals)
3. Coccidiostats (e.g., nicarbazin, lasalocid)
4. Probiotics
5. Improved hygiene and sanitation
6. Nutrition management (e.g., vitamin and mineral supplements)
7. Biosecurity measures
Treatment:
1. Anticoccidial drugs
2. Supportive care (hydration, electrolytes)
3. Antibiotics (secondary bacterial infections)
Prevention:
1. Implement integrated pest management (IPM)
2. Monitor flock health
3. Maintain good hygiene and sanitation
4. Provide adequate nutrition
5. Vaccinate against coccidiosis
Economic Impact:
1. Reduced growth rate
2. Decreased egg production
3. Increased mortality
4. Treatment costs
5. Decreased profitability
Important Notes:
1. Consult a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.
2. Follow recommended vaccination and medication protocols.
3. Implement biosecurity measures to prevent disease spread.
4. Monitor flock health regularly.
References:
– American Association of Avian Pathologists (AAAP)
– National Poultry Association (NPA)
– World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE)
– Merck Veterinary Manual