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Bacterial Diseases of Poultry: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention and Control
Bacterial diseases are an important cause of morbidity, mortality, and production losses in poultry. Common bacterial infections include colibacillosis, salmonellosis, coryza, fowl cholera, and chronic respiratory disease (CRD).
These diseases can affect poultry of different ages and may cause respiratory, digestive, systemic, or reproductive problems. Proper biosecurity, hatchery sanitation, flock management, ventilation, and early recognition of clinical signs are essential for effective prevention and control.
Colibacillosis
This is a common bacterial disease caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli). It can manifest in different forms, such as yolk sac infection, colisepticemia, and others. Lethargy and diarrhea may be observed.
Control of yolk sac infection depends on maintaining sanitary conditions at the hatchery and providing appropriate warmth during brooding. Effective water sanitation and the use of clean drinkers are strongly advised. Adequate ventilation should be provided, and litter should be properly managed.
Salmonellosis
This disease is transmitted vertically from parent flocks and affects young chicks, often resulting in high mortality. Huddling, pasting of vent feathers, and whitish diarrhea may be observed.
Ensure that chicks obtained from the hatchery are free of Salmonella by using properly sterilized fish meal and meat meal. Pelleting the feed may also be helpful. Furazolidone may be added to the feed to control salmonellosis.
Coryza
Symptoms of this disease include swollen faces and eyes with a cheesy exudate. Respiratory distress and reduced feed intake may also be observed.
Avoid overcrowding and wet litter. Reduce ammonia levels through proper ventilation.
Fowl Cholera
The combs and wattles of affected poultry may become swollen and bluish. High mortality and morbidity may occur, along with watery nasal discharge and excessive salivation. Pinpoint hemorrhages on the heart and duodenum and white spots on the liver may be present. Whitish diarrhea may also be observed.
Control rodents and ensure proper flock management. Provide good ventilation and minimize stress.
Chronic Respiratory Disease (CRD)
Respiratory distress, rales, sneezing, poor weight gain, and nasal discharge are common clinical signs. Infected chicks can transmit the disease through contaminated water and feed.
Avoid overcrowding, improve ventilation, ensure proper hatchery sanitation, and screen parent stock. Mixing tiamulin or tylosin into the feed may be helpful.
