Poultry Diseases and Prevention Strategies
- Shadreck Mwimanzi
- 30 Aug, 2025
Poultry Diseases and Prevention Strategies
Poultry farming is a significant sector in agriculture, providing eggs and meat to meet global food demands. However, poultry birds are susceptible to various diseases that can cause substantial economic losses.
Bacterial Diseases
- Colibacillosis. Caused by Escherichia coli, symptoms include airsacculitis, pericarditis, and peritonitis. Treatment involves antibiotics like Nitrofurans, Streptomycin, and Gentamycin.
- Fowl Cholera. Caused by Pasteurella multocida, symptoms include fever, anorexia, and diarrhea. Control measures include live vaccines and SulfaquinoxalineNa.
- Salmonellosis. Caused by Salmonella species, symptoms include diarrhea, dehydration, and reduced growth rate. Prevention strategies involve proper hygiene, disinfection, and vaccination.
Viral Diseases
- Newcastle Disease. A highly contagious virus affecting respiratory, nervous, and digestive systems. Symptoms include respiratory distress, greenish diarrhea, and nervous signs. Control measures involve regular vaccination and proper biosecurity.
- Avian Influenza. A viral disease affecting respiratory issues, causing high mortality rates. Symptoms include swelling of the head, comb, and wattles, respiratory distress, and loss of appetite. Prevention strategies involve strict biosecurity measures and good nutrition.
- Infectious Bronchitis. A contagious respiratory disease causing a drop in egg production. Symptoms include coughing, rattling, and nasal discharge. Control measures involve vaccination and proper sanitation.
Parasitic Diseases
- Coccidiosis. Caused by protozoa of the genus Eimeria, symptoms include bloody diarrhea, weight loss, and poor growth. Prevention strategies involve regular use of coccidiostats in feed or water and maintaining clean living conditions.
- Mites and Lice. External parasites causing feather pecking, scabs, and nocturnal restlessness. Control measures involve regular cleaning, acaricides, and promoting natural behaviors like dust-bathing.
Fungal Diseases
- Aspergillosis. A fungal infection caused by Aspergillus species, symptoms include respiratory distress, weight loss, and eye infections. Prevention strategies involve good hygiene in poultry houses and avoiding stress factors like overcrowding
Prevention and Control Measures
Maintaining a healthy flock requires implementing robust biosecurity measures, vaccination programs, and proper sanitation practices. Some key strategies include
- Vaccination. Administering vaccines to prevent diseases like Newcastle Disease, Avian Influenza, and Marek’s Disease.
- Biosecurity. Limiting access to poultry houses, controlling pests, and proper disposal of infected carcasses.
- Sanitation. Maintaining clean living conditions, providing clean feed and water, and regular disinfection of poultry houses.
- Proper Nutrition. Ensuring good nutrition to boost immunity and prevent diseases.
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