Poultry farming can be highly profitable, but disease outbreaks can cause significant losses. Understanding common poultry diseases and how to prevent them is essential for maintaining a healthy flock.
1. Newcastle Disease (ND)
- Cause: Viral infection affecting the respiratory, nervous, and digestive systems.
- Symptoms: Coughing, sneezing, twisted neck, paralysis, diarrhea, reduced egg production.
- Prevention: Routine vaccination, strict biosecurity, proper ventilation.
2. Gumboro (Infectious Bursal Disease – IBD)
- Cause: Viral disease affecting young birds’ immune systems.
- Symptoms: Ruffled feathers, diarrhea, dehydration, weight loss.
- Prevention: Vaccination at the right age, maintaining clean water and feed.
3. Coccidiosis
- Cause: Parasitic infection in the intestines due to poor hygiene.
- Symptoms: Bloody diarrhea, lethargy, weight loss.
- Prevention: Clean, dry litter, anticoccidial medication in feed or water.
4. Fowl Cholera
- Cause: Bacterial infection affecting multiple organs.
- Symptoms: Swollen wattles, respiratory distress, greenish diarrhea.
- Prevention: Vaccination, rodent control, proper farm sanitation.
5. Marek’s Disease
- Cause: Viral disease affecting nerves and organs.
- Symptoms: Paralysis, tumors, weight loss.
- Prevention: Vaccination at hatch, strict biosecurity.
General Disease Prevention Tips
- Maintain strict biosecurity (limit farm access, disinfect equipment).
- Provide balanced nutrition to strengthen immunity.
- Ensure clean water and proper waste disposal.
- Implement routine vaccinations and deworming schedules.
- Regularly inspect birds for early signs of illness.
By taking proactive steps, poultry farmers can prevent disease outbreaks and maintain a productive flock. Need expert advice? Contact Diversay Solutions for high-quality veterinary solutions tailored to your poultry needs.to our core mission: ensuring that high-quality animal protein is accessible to every Nigerian, every day.