In this section we will look at
1.)14 Major Chicken Diseases: Symptoms, Prevention, and Treatment
2.)Major Poultry Diseases in Kenya
3.)How To Identify a poultry disease
4.)Infectious Diseases in Poultry
5.)Best Antibiotics for Poultry
6.)Natural Antibiotics for Chickens
7.)Infectious Disease vs. Parasitic Disease in Poultry
8.)Natural Antibiotics for Chickens
9.)Liquid Paraffin for chickens
For starters : Kindly Ensure you Vaccinate your chicks with Marek injection on the first day of hatching, Newcastle vaccine on the 7 day and gumboro vaccine after 21 days
1.)Newcastle Disease
Newcastle Disease (ND) is a one of the most highly contagious viral disease that affects a wide range of bird species, including domestic poultry. It is caused by the Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV), a member of the paramyxovirus family. ND is a significant threat to poultry farming due to its potential for causing high mortality and economic losses.
Image of a bird affected by New castle disease
NOTE:There is no specific treatment for Newcastle Disease.Diagnosis typically involves Observing symptoms like respiratory distress or twisted necks.
Symptoms of Newcastle Disease
Symptoms vary depending on the strain of the virus (lentogenic, mesogenic, or velogenic), the age of the bird, and its immune status. They generally fall into respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous system categories:
Respiratory Symptoms of New Castle disease
Coughing
Sneezing
Nasal discharge
Labored breathing
Digestive Symptoms of New Castle disease
Greenish, watery diarrhea
Loss of appetite
Weight loss
Neurological Symptoms of New Castle disease
Twisted neck (torticollis)
Paralysis of wings and legs
Tremors
Circling or inability to stand
Other Symptoms of New Castle disease
Sudden drop in egg production
Thin-shelled or misshapen eggs
Depression and lethargy
High mortality rates, especially with velogenic strains
Transmission of New Castle disease
Newcastle disease is transmitted through:
Direct contact with infected birds, their droppings, or respiratory secretions.
Contaminated feed, water, equipment, or clothing.
Wild birds, rodents, and other animals can also act as carriers
Prevention and Control of New Castle disease
Image of chicks drinking aloe vera water to prevent New castle disease
Vaccination:
Live Vaccines: Lentogenic strains (e.g., LaSota or B1) are commonly used for broilers.
Inactivated Vaccines: Administered to layers and breeders for longer immunity.
Timing: Chicks are typically vaccinated at 7–14 days, with boosters as needed.
Biosecurity:
Isolate new birds before introducing them to the flock.
Restrict access to poultry houses.
Disinfect equipment and facilities regularly.
Good Husbandry:
Provide balanced nutrition and clean water to boost immunity.
Minimize stress factors like overcrowding.
1.1)Infectious coryza
Infectious coryza is a highly contagious bacterial disease affecting chickens, caused by Avibacterium paragallinarum. It primarily affects the respiratory system and leads to significant economic losses in poultry farming due to reduced productivity.
Image of Infectious coryza affecting chick
Signs and Symptoms of Infectious coryza
Respiratory Issues:
Swollen sinuses.
Nasal discharge.
Sneezing and coughing.
Behavioral Changes:
Reduced activity.
Decreased appetite and water intake.
Isolation from the flock.
Physical Indicators:
Swollen face or wattles.
Foul-smelling discharge from nostrils.
Conjunctivitis (inflammation of the eyes).
Egg Production:
Decline in egg production or production of deformed eggs.
Transmission of Infectious coryza
Spread occurs through direct contact with infected birds or contaminated feed, water, and equipment.
Birds that recover can become carriers, shedding the bacteria intermittently.
Diagnosis of Infectious coryza
Diagnosis is confirmed through clinical signs, bacterial cultures, and laboratory testing of samples from nasal discharges or affected tissues.
Treatment of Infectious coryza
Antibiotics:
Commonly used antibiotics include sulfonamides, erythromycin, and oxytetracycline.
Note: Antibiotic resistance is a growing concern; veterinary guidance is essential.
Supportive Care:
Ensure access to clean water and a balanced diet to aid recovery.
Isolate affected birds to limit spread.
Prevention and Control of Infectious coryza
Vaccination:
Vaccines against infectious coryza are available and effective in reducing outbreaks.
Biosecurity Measures:
Maintain strict hygiene in the poultry house.
Quarantine new birds before introducing them to the flock.
Clean and disinfect equipment regularly.
Environmental Management:
Ensure proper ventilation in poultry houses.
Avoid overcrowding, as stress can predispose birds to infection.
2.)Infectious Bursal Disease (Gumboro)
Chickens between 3 and 6 weeks old are most susceptible.
Infectious Bursal Disease (IBD), also known as Gumboro disease, is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects young chickens, targeting their immune system. It is caused by the infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV), a member of the Birnaviridae family. The disease is named after the bursa of Fabricius, an immune organ in birds that the virus attacks, leading to immunosuppression.
Symptoms of Infectious Bursal Disease (Gumboro)
Depression and lethargy
Ruffled feathers and reluctance to move
Diarrhea (often whitish or watery)
Dehydration
Swollen or hemorrhagic bursa of Fabricius (seen on necropsy)
Sudden death in severe cases
Transmission of Infectious Bursal Disease (Gumboro)
Primary Source: Contaminated feed, water, or litter.
Virus Shedding: Infected birds excrete the virus in their droppings, contaminating the environment.
Environmental Stability: The virus is highly resistant to environmental conditions and disinfectants, allowing it to persist in poultry houses for long periods
Diagnosis of Infectious Bursal Disease (Gumboro)
Clinical Signs: Sudden onset of symptoms in susceptible age groups.
Necropsy Findings: Enlarged, hemorrhagic, or atrophied bursa of Fabricius.
Laboratory Tests: Virus isolation, PCR, or serological tests to confirm the presence of IBDV.
Prevention and Control of Infectious Bursal Disease (Gumboro)
Vaccination:
Vaccines are the primary tool for preventing IBD.
Broiler chicks are usually vaccinated around 14–21 days of age.
Breeder hens are vaccinated to pass maternal antibodies to their offspring.
Biosecurity:
Clean and disinfect poultry houses between flocks.
Minimize contact with outside birds or contaminated equipment.
Maintain proper litter management to reduce viral loads.
Management Practices:
Provide good nutrition to support immune function.
Reduce stressors like overcrowding and temperature fluctuations.
Treatment
There is no specific treatment for IBD.
Supportive care, such as providing electrolytes and vitamins, can help reduce mortality and aid recovery in mild outbreaks.
3.)Marek’s Disease
Marek's disease is a highly contagious viral disease that affects chickens. It is caused by a type of herpesvirus called Marek's disease virus (MDV). This disease primarily targets the nervous system and immune cells, causing a range of symptoms that vary depending on the form of the disease. It is a major concern in poultry farming due to its potential to cause significant economic losses.
Neurological (Classical) Form:
Characterized by paralysis of the legs, wings, or neck.
Chickens may appear uncoordinated or have difficulty standing or walking.
Ocular Form:
Causes changes in the eyes, including irregularly shaped pupils or a loss of eye pigment (grey eye).
Can lead to blindness.
Cutaneous Form:
White or raised lesions appear on the skin, particularly around feather follicles.
Visceral Form:
Tumors develop in internal organs such as the liver, spleen, kidneys, or gonads.
This form is often associated with sudden death.
Transmission of Marek's Disease
The virus is spread through infected chicken dander and dust. It can survive in the environment for long periods.
Birds become infected by inhaling virus particles.
Symptoms of Marek's Disease
Paralysis or difficulty walking
Weight loss
Depression and lethargy
Decreased egg production
Enlarged nerves (visible in severe cases)
Prevention of Marek's Disease
Vaccination:
Vaccination is the most effective method of prevention.
Chicks are typically vaccinated on their first day of life or in ovo (before hatching).
Vaccines do not prevent infection but help reduce the severity of the disease.
Biosecurity Measures:
Maintain a clean environment to minimize virus spread.
Isolate new birds before introducing them to a flock.
Limit visitor access and sanitize equipment regularly.
Genetic Resistance:
Some chicken breeds show natural resistance to Marek's disease. Selective breeding can help reduce susceptibility.
Symptoms: Swollen wattles, greenish diarrhea, loss of appetite, respiratory issues.
Prevention: Vaccination and good hygiene.
Treatment: Antibiotics like sulfa drugs or tetracyclines.
5.) Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)
Symptoms: Coughing, sneezing, swollen head, purple discoloration of wattles.
Prevention: Isolate flocks, practice biosecurity.
Treatment: No specific treatment; report outbreaks to authorities.
Coccidiosis is a parasitic disease caused by protozoa of the genus Eimeria. It primarily affects the intestinal tract of poultry, especially chickens, and can lead to significant economic losses in the poultry industry due to reduced growth rates, decreased egg production, and high mortality in severe cases. The disease is particularly prevalent in intensive farming systems where birds are housed in crowded and humid conditions.
Image of coccidiosis affecting chicken
Through ingestion of sporulated oocysts found in contaminated litter, feed, or water.
Lifecycle of Eimeria
Oocysts Excretion: Infected birds shed unsporulated oocysts in their feces.
Sporulation: Oocysts sporulate in the environment under warm and humid conditions, becoming infectious.
Infection: Birds ingest the sporulated oocysts.
Replication: Inside the host, the parasite multiplies in the intestinal cells, causing damage and clinical signs.
Symptoms of Coccidiosis
The severity depends on the Eimeria species, parasite load, and the bird's age and immunity. Common symptoms include:
Diarrhea, often bloody or watery (especially with E. tenella).
Weight loss and reduced feed intake.
Dehydration.
Lethargy and ruffled feathers.
Poor growth and reduced egg production.
High mortality in severe cases.
Diagnosis of Coccidiosis
Clinical Signs: Sudden onset of diarrhea, weakness, and other symptoms in a flock.
Postmortem Examination:
Lesions in the intestines, which vary by the Eimeria species.
Presence of oocysts in intestinal scrapings under a microscope.
Laboratory Tests: Fecal examination, PCR, or histopathology for confirmation.
Prevention and Control of Coccidiosis
Vaccination:
Live attenuated vaccines can be used to develop immunity in young birds.
Often administered to breeders and layers.
Coccidiostats and Coccidiocides:
Added to feed or water to prevent or control outbreaks.
Common drugs include ionophores (e.g., monensin, salinomycin) and synthetic chemicals (e.g., amprolium, toltrazuril).
Rotation of drugs is essential to avoid resistance.
Biosecurity and Management:
Keep litter dry and clean to reduce oocyst sporulation.
Minimize overcrowding to reduce stress and exposure.
Implement proper cleaning and disinfection between flocks.
Probiotics and Feed Additives:
Supplementing feed with probiotics or prebiotics can help improve gut health and resilience to infections.
Treatment of Coccidiosis
In case of an outbreak, anticoccidial drugs are administered in feed or water to treat infected birds like Amprolium,Coccidiosis ESB3 30%
Supportive care (e.g., electrolytes and vitamins) helps reduce stress and mortality.
7.)Infectious Bronchitis
Symptoms: Coughing, sneezing, reduced egg production, watery albumen in eggs.
Prevention: Vaccination and isolating sick birds.
Treatment: Antibiotics for secondary infections.
7.1)lymphoid leukosis disease
Lymphoid Leukosis (LL) is a disease in chickens caused by a group of retroviruses collectively known as avian leukosis virus (ALV). It primarily affects the lymphoid tissue, particularly the B cells, and can result in the formation of tumors, especially in the liver, spleen, and bursa of Fabricius. LL is a significant concern in poultry production because it can cause economic losses through decreased egg production, poor growth rates, and increased mortality.Lymphoid Leukosis spreads vertically (from hen to egg) or horizontally (from bird to bird through direct contact, contaminated environments, or fomites).
Symptoms of lymphoid leukosis disease
Chronic wasting or poor growth
Reduced egg production in layers
Enlargement of the liver, spleen, or bursa of Fabricius
Tumors in visceral organs such as the liver or spleen
Lethargy, pale combs, and decreased feed intake
Diagnosis of lymphoid leukosis disease
Clinical signs and necropsy findings, including the presence of tumors in internal organs.
Histopathological examination of affected tissues.
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) or Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) for viral detection.
Prevention of lymphoid leukosis disease
Biosecurity Measures:
Maintain strict hygiene and sanitation in poultry houses.
Avoid the introduction of infected birds into flocks.
Genetic Resistance:
Select and breed chickens with genetic resistance to ALV.
Vertical Transmission Control:
Screen breeder hens for ALV and remove infected birds to prevent egg transmission.
Vaccination:
No commercial vaccines are widely available for ALV; hence prevention focuses on management and breeding practices.
8.)Fowl Pox
Fowl Pox is a slow-spreading viral disease affecting chickens, turkeys, and other avian species. It is caused by the Avipoxvirus, part of the Poxviridae family. The disease occurs in two forms: dry (cutaneous) and wet (diphtheritic) forms, both of which can significantly impact poultry productivity.
Image of fowl pox affecting chicken
Symptoms of Fowl Pox
Reduced feed intake and weight loss.
Drop in egg production in layers.
Lesions or scabs on combs, wattles, eyelids, or legs (dry form).
Difficulty breathing or swallowing (wet form).
Depression and lethargy.
Transmission of Fowl pox
Spread through direct contact with infected birds or contaminated surfaces.
Vectors such as mosquitoes and other blood-sucking insects play a significant role in transmission.
The virus can survive in the environment for long periods, particularly in scabs or lesions.
Prevention and Control of Fowl pox
Vaccination:
Administered as a live vaccine using a wing-web stab method.
Typically given to chicks at 6–10 weeks of age.
Booster vaccinations may be needed in high-risk areas.
Mosquito Control:
Eliminate standing water to reduce mosquito breeding.
Use insect repellents and screens in poultry houses.
Biosecurity:
Isolate new birds for at least two weeks.
Regularly clean and disinfect equipment and housing.
Treatment of Fowl Pox
Providing a balanced diet and clean water.
Treating secondary infections with antibiotics.
Applying antiseptics to lesions in the dry form
9.)Pullorum Disease
Symptoms: White diarrhea, ruffled feathers, high chick mortality.
Prevention: Test breeding stock and cull carriers.
Treatment: Antibiotics like sulfa drugs.
10.)Salmonellosis
Symptoms: Diarrhea, weakness, drop in egg production.
Prevention: Good sanitation, vaccination, biosecurity.
Treatment: Antibiotics like tetracyclines.
11.)Aspergillosis
Symptoms: Respiratory distress, weight loss, lethargy.
Prevention: Maintain dry and clean litter.
Treatment: Antifungal agents and clean the environment.
12.) Worm Infestations
Symptoms: Weight loss, reduced egg production, diarrhea.
Prevention: Regular deworming, clean environment.
Treatment: Dewormers like Piperazine or Levamisole.
13.)Mycoplasmosis
Symptoms: Respiratory distress, nasal discharge, swollen sinuses.
Prevention: Vaccination and isolation of infected birds.
Treatment: Antibiotics like Tylosin or Tetracyclines
14.)Fowl Typhoid
Symptoms: Diarrhea, lethargy, yellowish droppings, reduced feed intake.
Prevention: Vaccination and culling infected birds.
Treatment: Antibiotics such as Chloramphenicol or Amoxicillin.
Major Poultry Diseases in Kenya
Newcastle Disease
Coccidiosis
Gumboro (Infectious Bursal Disease)
Avian Influenza
Fowl Typhoid
Marek’s Disease
How To Identify a poultry disease
Being proactive with observation and prevention is the best way to keep your flock healthy. If in doubt, seek professional veterinary advice promptly.
1.)Monitor Behavioral Changes
Lethargy: Birds appear inactive, weak, or isolated from the flock.
Appetite loss: Decreased feeding or drinking.
Respiratory issues: Wheezing, coughing, or labored breathing.
2. Check Physical Symptoms
Feathers: Ruffled, dull, or falling off abnormally.
Eyes and Beak: Discharge, swelling, or unusual coloration.
Comb and Wattles: Pale, swollen, or discolored.
Droppings: Abnormal color, consistency, or presence of blood.
3. Assess Egg Production
Sudden drops in egg production or irregularly shaped eggs may indicate illness.
4. Inspect for Specific Diseases
Coccidiosis: Blood-streaked droppings, weight loss, and diarrhea.
Newcastle Disease: Respiratory distress, twisted necks, or paralysis.
Marek’s Disease: Paralysis, weight loss, or tumor-like growths.
Avian Influenza: Respiratory issues, swollen head, or sudden death.
Fowl Pox: Scabs or lesions on the comb, wattles, or feet.
5. Environment and Hygiene
Dirty water or feed sources, overcrowding, and poor ventilation can lead to diseases.
6. Conduct Lab Tests
If symptoms persist, consult a veterinarian. They may recommend laboratory tests like blood tests, fecal analysis, or necropsy for definitive diagnosis.
Prevention Tips
Vaccinate against common diseases.
Maintain clean coops, water, and feed.
Isolate new or sick birds to prevent the spread of infection.
Infectious Diseases in Poultry
Newcastle Disease
Avian Influenza
Gumboro Disease
Infectious Bronchitis
Mycoplasmosis
Best Antibiotics for Poultry
Tylosin: For Mycoplasmosis.
Amoxicillin: Broad-spectrum use.
Sulfa drugs: For bacterial infections like Fowl Cholera.
Oxytetracycline: Respiratory and systemic infections.
Natural Antibiotics for Chickens
Garlic: Natural antibacterial and immune booster.
Oregano Oil: Effective against respiratory infections.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Promotes gut health and fights bacteria.
Turmeric: Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial
Infectious Disease vs. Parasitic Disease in Poultry
Infectious Diseases
Definition: Caused by microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, and fungi that invade and multiply in the host's body.
Examples in Poultry:
Newcastle Disease (virus)
Fowl Typhoid (bacteria)
Infectious Bronchitis (virus)
Aspergillosis (fungus)
Transmission:
Spread through direct contact, contaminated feed, water, or air.
Can also spread via fomites (tools, equipment, clothing).
Symptoms:
Respiratory distress, fever, diarrhea, paralysis, reduced egg production.
Diagnosis:
Laboratory tests (bacterial cultures, PCR for viruses).
Prevention:
Vaccination programs.
Maintaining biosecurity and sanitation.
Treatment:
Antibiotics for bacterial infections (e.g., Tylosin, Amoxicillin).
Supportive care for viral diseases.
Parasitic Diseases
Definition: Caused by external or internal parasites that live in or on the host, feeding off their nutrients.
Examples in Poultry:
Coccidiosis (protozoan parasite)
Worm infestations (roundworms, tapeworms)
External parasites (mites, lice, fleas)
Transmission:
Spread through contaminated litter, feed, water, or direct contact with infected birds.
Symptoms:
Weight loss, diarrhea, pale combs, anemia, itching, reduced growth.
Diagnosis:
Fecal examinations for internal parasites.
Physical observation for external parasites.
Prevention:
Regular deworming.
Clean and dry bedding.
Use of anti-parasitic powders or sprays.
Treatment:
Dewormers (Levamisole, Piperazine).
Anti-mite or anti-lice treatments like permethrin.
Liquid Paraffin for chickens
Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil commonly used in poultry for medicinal purposes, particularly for digestive and skin-related issues. is a gullet softener, it prevents the chick from constipation and aids in chick's digestion
Note : When adding Liquid paraffin do not mix with water since it will float thus after filling the drinker with water add the liquid paraffin. The Liquid paraffin will float on water hence the chick will swallow fast
Treatment of Crop Impaction:
Purpose: Helps soften and break down food blockages in the crop.
Application: Administered orally in small amounts to lubricate and loosen impacted material, facilitating its passage through the digestive system.
Laxative for Digestive Issues:
Purpose: Acts as a mild laxative for relieving constipation.
Application: Small doses are given orally to aid bowel movements.
Treatment of External Parasites:
Purpose: Used to smother mites and lice on chickens' skin and feathers.
Application: Applied directly on affected areas to suffocate external parasites.
Wound Care and Skin Conditions:
Purpose: Provides a protective layer over wounds, preventing infection.
Application: Applied to minor cuts or abrasions for moisture retention and soothing.
Assistance in Egg Laying:
Purpose: Lubricates the vent area to help hens struggling with egg-binding.
Application: Applied around the vent to reduce discomfort and facilitate egg passage.
For Day Old Chick to a month Old Chicks,avoid having cornered cubes .You should install plywood in every corner, to avoid Chicks sleeping on each other on the sharp corner and cause losses
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