Parasitic Diseases in Poultry: Symptoms & Treatment Guide

Coccidiosis Disease in Poultry: Understanding and Managing the Common Parasitic Infection

Coccidiosis is a prevalent internal parasitic disease that affects poultry, especially young birds from three weeks of age and mature flocks. The disease is caused by various species of Eimeria parasites.

Symptoms and Spread of Coccidiosis:

Common symptoms of coccidiosis in poultry include underweight birds, premature death, reduced growth and production rates, and early slaughter. The disease spreads through the consumption of contaminated material containing the parasite's eggs (oocysts) present in the litter. Infected birds excrete these oocysts in their droppings, which require warmth and moisture to mature.

The oocysts can remain active in the litter for over a year and are highly resistant to most disinfectants. Although birds of any age can be affected, problems are uncommon in chicks younger than three weeks, as it takes time for the parasites to reach a sufficient number to cause issues.

Signs and Symptoms of Coccidiosis:

1. Depression and decreased growth rate
2. Weight loss
3. Paleness and severe diarrhea
4. Ruffled feathers and high mortality
5. Decreased egg production
6. Lack of appetite (reduced water and feed intake)

Note: Outbreaks of Coccidiosis can be more severe when there is a lack of vitamins A and K. Laboratory confirmation of the presence of parasites can be achieved through microscopic examination.

Control and Treatment of Coccidiosis:

While it is practically impossible to completely prevent Coccidiosis under normal farm conditions, the use of Amprolium can help control the parasite's ability to multiply and slow down its rate of reproduction. Sanitary measures are also crucial in keeping the number of Coccidia on the premises as low as possible to prevent severe infections.

Sanitary Measures to Control Coccidiosis on the Farm:

1. Thoroughly clean and disinfect poultry houses as frequently as possible.
2. Keep the litter and the entire house dry by fixing any roof leaks and ensuring an adequate overhang to prevent rainwater from entering the house.
3. Stir the litter regularly to prevent caking.
4. Use sulfur drugs and Amprolium early in the outbreak to reduce the severity of Coccidia infection.
5. Improve house ventilation.
6. Avoid overcrowding of birds.
7. Clean and decontaminate drinkers and feeders.
8. Implement routine preventive treatment (monthly treatment), as birds do not respond well to drugs once symptoms appear.

Worm Infestation in Poultry: Understanding and Controlling Roundworms and Tapeworms

Worm infestations, primarily caused by roundworms and tapeworms, are common among poultry. These infestations spread from bird to bird through the fecal-oral route.

Signs of Worm Infestation in Poultry:

1. Droopiness in heavily infected birds.
2. Weight loss, slow growth, and pale combs.
3. Diarrhea and an unthrifty appearance.
4. Reduced egg production, decreased appetite, and ruffled feathers.

Note: The best treatment for worm infestation is prevention and the use of Fenbendazole.

Preventing Worm Infestation in Poultry:

1. Feed poultry a well-balanced diet.
2. Prevent feed and water fouling.
3. Keep birds away from fouled or damp ground and litter, as worm eggs can survive for long periods in such conditions.
4. Regularly clean and disinfect the poultry house, especially before introducing a new batch of chickens.
5. Separate young birds from adults to minimize the risk of worm infestation.
6. Control worms and parasite carriers such as earthworms, grasshoppers, weevils, beetles, slugs, snails, flies, ants, and cockroaches on the farm.
7. Effective treatments for worms in chickens include Piperazine citrate and Levamisole.

External Parasites: Lice, Ticks, Mites, and Fleas

External parasites, also known as ectoparasites, are larger species that attack the skin of domestic animals and poultry. The most important external parasites include lice, ticks, mites, and fleas.

(a) Lice:

Lice are ectoparasites that reside in the skin of birds, particularly around the cloaca and under the wings. They irritate, leading to reduced egg and meat production. Lice feed on the blood of various domestic animals and birds. Head and feather lice commonly infest fowls, causing them to lose condition. Spraying and dipping with recommended insecticides can control lice infestation.

(b) Mites:

Mites are troublesome ectoparasites that hide in cracks of houses and perches and emerge at night to feed. They are bloodsuckers and can lower egg production. Mites are white with dark legs. Signs of mite infestation in poultry include weight loss, scabs near the vent, a drop in egg production, and loss of feathers. Disinfecting poultry houses with suitable disinfectants or using dust powder or spray solutions can effectively control mites.

(c) Ticks:

Ticks can cause severe infestation, leading to anemia and, in extreme cases, death due to blood loss. Signs of ticks in poultry include chickens changing perching locations, pale combs or wattles, and red spots on the skin.

(d) Fleas:

Fleas are small, dark-colored parasites that can jump into the air. They feed on blood and can survive for a long time without food. Flea eggs and young ones are found in bird nests and cracks in walls and floors. Signs of fleas in poultry include weight loss and pale combs.

Control of Fleas:

To control external parasites effectively:

1. Apply malathion dust on individual birds, walls, and laying nests.
2. Use diatomaceous earth and administer bird injections with drugs like ivermectin or moxidectin.
3. Repair cracks and crevices in walls, and maintain overall hygiene and sanitation.

Mycotoxin Infection: Prevention and Treatment

Mycotoxins are toxic substances that can contaminate grain or feed and severely affect poultry production, fertility, and the immune system. Poor handling and storage of feeds are common causes of mycotoxin infection.

Treatment of Mycotoxin Infection:

To address mycotoxin infection:

1. Remove toxic feed and replace it with uncontaminated feed.
2. Improve management practices to prevent substandard conditions.
3. Provide vitamins, minerals, and increased dietary protein.
4. Treat concurrent diseases to alleviate their impact on mycotoxin infection.

Tips for Preventing Diseases on the Poultry Farm:

To maintain a healthy and disease-free poultry farm:

1. Minimize visits to other farms during outbreaks.
2. Limit the entry of visitors to the farm and enforce hygiene measures.
3. Provide separate boots or sandals for each chicken house and use disinfectant foot baths at the entrance.
4. Wash and disinfect farm equipment, including drinkers, feeders, and de-beakers, before and after use.
5. Avoid borrowing equipment from outside the farm, and disinfect egg trays from the market.
6. Control the entry of chick delivery vans, feed trucks, and pickups to prevent the introduction of disease agents. Wash and disinfect the wheels and bottoms of vehicles, and park them at least 30 meters away from poultry houses.
7. Ensure that water sources are not contaminated, as contaminated water can serve as a breeding ground for diseases such as Bird flu, Newcastle disease, E.coli, and Salmonella. Fix any leakages in the roof and drinking systems to prevent water accumulation and the onset of coccidiosis.
8. Take measures to control wild birds, as they can carry viruses and bacteria such as Salmonellosis and Mycoplasma. Make the poultry house bird-proof by using appropriately sized wire mesh and keeping the doors closed at all times.
9. Address rodent infestations, as rodents can carry diseases, contaminate feeds and litter with salmonella, and stress the birds. Rodents can also cause damage to electric wires and water pipes. Remove piles of trash around the farm, reduce vegetation near the poultry house, clean feed spills, and block possible entry points for rodents.
10. Keep pets and other animals such as dogs, cats, and pet birds away from poultry, as they can be carriers of diseases such as salmonella, fowl cholera, psittacosis, and Newcastle disease.
11. Control insects, as they can also carry diseases. Mosquitoes, for example, can transmit fowlpox and salmonella. Remove stagnant water and clear bushes around the poultry house to minimize insect breeding grounds.
12. Maintain good farm hygiene by mowing grass around the house to prevent water and manure build-up. Remove rotting mulch and bird carcasses, as they can harbor insect larvae.
13. Properly store poultry feed to prevent contamination and loss of nutrients. Keep feed in a cool and dry place, avoid piling up food materials on the farm premises, and ensure that feed ingredients are processed, stored, and fed in sufficient quantities without excesses.
14. Dispose of dead birds immediately by incinerating them or burying them deep in the soil with lime. Do not consume or sell dead chickens, and avoid disposing of them in rivers, canals, or lakes. Also, refrain from feeding dead chickens to dogs or pigs.
15. When handling birds, always wash your hands and feet with soap and water before and after to minimize the risk of disease transmission.

Disinfection of the Poultry House:

Disinfection plays a vital role in biosecurity measures. To ensure effective disinfection:

1. Remove all dirt from the walls of the poultry house.
2. Use approved disinfectants in the correct concentration and volume to cover the entire surface.
3. Prepare and apply the disinfectant safely, following the manufacturer's instructions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, maintaining good hygiene practices and implementing effective disease control measures are essential for the well-being and productivity of poultry farms. Understanding the signs and symptoms of various diseases, practicing preventive measures, and taking prompt action can prevent disease outbreaks or minimize their impact.

Regular cleaning and disinfection, waste management, proper nutrition, and effective pest control are key factors in preventing and managing diseases on poultry farms. By following these guidelines and implementing stringent biosecurity measures, farmers can promote the health and productivity of their poultry flocks.