20 Common Diseases In Poultry Farm

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Poultry farming is one of the most popular and profitable agricultural businesses in the world today because of the high demand for poultry produce, especially meat, and egg.

Unfortunately, poultry farm is also prone to several diseases. Common poultry diseases range from bacterial infections to viral diseases and nutritional deficiencies including Newcastle disease, Infectious Bronchitis, Avian Influenza, Fowl Cholera, and Coccidiosis among others.

Knowing the signs and symptoms of these diseases can help poultry owners take steps to prevent their spread, protect their birds, and ensure the safety of their flock.

In this article, we will discuss 20 of the most common poultry diseases, their causes, symptoms, and prevention methods.

20 Common Diseases In Poultry Farming

Table of Contents

Poultry farming is a popular and profitable industry, and it is important to be aware of common diseases that can affect your flocks. These diseases can cause significant losses in production, so it is important to be familiar with their signs and treatments.

1. Newcastle Disease

Newcastle disease is one of the most common diseases that affect poultry farms. It is caused by a virus and can spread quickly, resulting in severe respiratory illness, neurological signs, and sudden death in birds. Vaccination is the only effective way to protect poultry from this disease.

2. Avian Influenza

Avian influenza, also known as bird flu, is an infectious disease caused by different strains of influenza viruses. It can cause high mortality in poultry and can spread from birds to humans. Vaccination and good biosecurity measures are the best way to prevent and control the disease.

3. Infectious Bronchitis

Infectious Bronchitis is a highly contagious respiratory disease affecting poultry. It is caused by a virus and can result in respiratory signs, decreased egg production, and poor egg quality. Vaccination is the best way to protect poultry from this disease.

4. Fowl Cholera

Fowl cholera is a bacterial disease caused by Pasteurella multocida. It affects chickens, turkeys, and other poultry and can cause high mortality. Vaccination and good biosecurity measures are the best way to prevent and control it.

5. Coccidiosis

Coccidiosis is an intestinal disease that commonly occurs in poultry farms, and it is caused by the protozoan parasite, known as Coccidia. It affects chickens, turkeys, and other poultry and can cause diarrhea, anemia, and poor growth. Vaccination and good hygiene measures are the best way to control it.

6. E. Coli Infection

coli infection is a bacterial disease caused by Escherichia coli bacteria. It affects young birds, causing respiratory signs, diarrhea, and even death. Vaccination and good hygiene measures are the best way to prevent and control it.

7. Infectious Laryngotracheitis

Infectious laryngotracheitis is a viral disease affecting poultry. It causes respiratory signs, including coughing, sneezing, and difficulty breathing. Vaccination and good biosecurity measures are the best way to prevent and control it.

8. Marek’s Disease

Marek’s disease is a viral disease caused by the herpes virus. It affects chickens and other poultry and can cause paralysis, blindness, and even death. Vaccination is the best way to protect poultry from this disease.

9. Mycoplasmosis

Mycoplasmosis is a bacterial disease caused by Mycoplasma species. It affects chickens, turkeys, and other poultry and can cause respiratory signs, decreased egg production, and poor egg quality. Vaccination and good hygiene measures are the best way to prevent and control it.

10. Avian Gastric Yeast

Avian gastric yeast is a fungal infection caused by Candida albicans. It affects chickens, turkeys, and other poultry and can cause decreased egg production, poor egg quality, and poor growth. Vaccination and good hygiene measures are the best way to prevent and control it.

11. Enteritis

Enteritis is an intestinal infection caused by bacteria or viruses. It affects chickens, turkeys, and other poultry and can cause diarrhea, dehydration, and poor growth. Vaccination and good hygiene measures are the best way to prevent and control it.

12. Avian Pox

Avian pox is a viral disease caused by different types of pox viruses. It affects chickens, turkeys, and other poultry and can cause skin lesions, decreased egg production, and poor growth. Vaccination and good hygiene measures are the best way to prevent and control it.

13. Aspergillosis

Aspergillosis is among the common poultry farm diseases. It is a fungal infection caused by Aspergillus species. It affects chickens, turkeys, and other poultry and can cause respiratory signs, decreased egg production, and poor egg quality. Vaccination and good hygiene measures are the best way to prevent and control it.

14. Egg Drop Syndrome

Egg Drop Syndrome is a viral disease caused by a group of viruses known as adenoviruses. It affects chickens, turkeys, and other poultry and can cause decreased egg production, poor egg quality, and poor growth. Vaccination and good hygiene measures are the best way to prevent and control it.

15. Salmonellosis

Salmonellosis is a bacterial infection caused by Salmonella species. It affects chickens, turkeys, and other poultry and can cause diarrhea, septicemia, and even death. Vaccination and good hygiene measures are the best way to prevent and control it.

16. Pullorum Disease

Pullorum disease is a bacterial disease caused by Salmonella pullorum. It affects chickens, turkeys, and other poultry and can cause septicemia, decreased egg production, and poor egg quality. Vaccination and good hygiene measures are the best way to prevent and control it.

17. Vibriosis

Vibriosis is a bacterial infection caused by Vibrio species. It affects chickens, turkeys, and other poultry and can cause decreased egg production, poor egg quality, and poor growth. Vaccination and good hygiene measures are the best way to prevent and control it.

18. Avian Tuberculosis

Avian tuberculosis is a bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium avium. It affects chickens, turkeys, and other poultry and can cause respiratory signs, decreased egg production, and poor egg quality. Vaccination and good hygiene measures are the best way to prevent and control it.

19. Histomoniasis

Histomoniasis is a parasitic disease that occurs in poultry farms. The disease is caused by Histomonas meleagridis. It affects chickens, turkeys, and other poultry and can cause diarrhea, decreased egg production, and poor egg quality. Vaccination and good hygiene measures are the best way to prevent and control it.

20. Worm Infection

Worm infection is a parasitic disease caused by worms such as roundworms, tapeworms, and threadworms.

It affects chickens, turkeys, and other poultry and can cause decreased egg production, poor egg quality, and poor growth. Vaccination and good hygiene measures are the best way to prevent and control it.

Causes of Common Diseases in Poultry Farm

There are numerous causes of diseases in poultry farms. The major causes are highlighted below.

1. Infectious Diseases

Infectious diseases are caused by harmful bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Examples of infectious diseases in poultry farms include avian influenza, Newcastle disease, Salmonella, Marek’s disease, and Mycoplasma.

2. Nutritional Imbalances

When poultry is not provided with the correct balance of nutrients from their diet, they can become malnourished, which can lead to a wide range of diseases. Common nutritional imbalances in poultry include vitamin A, vitamin D, and calcium deficiencies.

3. Stress

Stress can be caused by overcrowding, poor ventilation, extreme temperatures, and other environmental factors. Stress can weaken the immune system, making poultry more susceptible to disease.

4. Genetic Predisposition

Certain diseases, such as Marek’s disease, can be caused by a genetic predisposition. Breeding poultry with good genetics can help reduce the risk of disease.

5. Parasitic Diseases

Parasitic diseases such as coccidiosis, gapeworm, and mites can also cause problems in poultry farms. These parasites can be spread through contact with contaminated surfaces, water, or feed, or direct contact between birds.

6. Poor Management Practices

Poor management such as overcrowding, inadequate ventilation, and improper sanitation can lead to increased disease transmission and decreased productivity.

7. Bacterial and Viral Infections

Bacterial and viral infections can also cause a variety of health problems in poultry. These can include diseases such as avian influenza and salmonellosis.

Symptoms of Common Diseases in Poultry Farm

Avian Influenza

Sneezing, coughing, nasal discharge, ruffled feathers, decreased appetite, decreased egg production, swelling of the neck or head, and sudden death.

Newcastle Disease

Sneezing, coughing, breathing difficulties, diarrhea, droopy wings, decreased appetite, decreased egg production, swollen eyelids, and sudden death.

Coccidiosis

Watery diarrhea, decreased appetite, weight loss, poor feathering, and increased susceptibility to other diseases.

Infectious Bronchitis

Coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, decreased egg production and decreased feed intake.

Salmonellosis

Diarrhea, vomiting, depression, decreased egg production and decreased feed intake.

Mycoplasmosis

Respiratory distress, wheezing, coughing, decreased egg production, and decreased feed intake.

Marek’s Disease

Paralysis decreased egg production and decreased feed intake.

Fowl Cholera

Weakness, Depression, Loss of appetite, Diarrhea, Lethargy, Loss of weight, Coughing, Sneezing

E. Coli Infection

Dehydration, Lethargy, Lack of Appetite, Weight Loss, Diarrhea, Pale Comb, Wattles, and Ruffled Feathers

Infectious Laryngotracheitis

Coughing, Sneezing, Difficulty Breathing, Sudden Onset of Gasping, Red Eyes, and Swelling of the Face.

Avian Gastric Yeast

Loss of appetite, Weight loss, ruffled feathers, Depression, Lethargy, and Diarrhea

Enteritis

Lack of appetite, Weight loss, Dehydration, Lethargy, Diarrhea, Pale comb, and wattles, ruffled feathers.

Avian Pox

Papules, Nodules, Scabs, Ulcers, Weight loss, Lethargy

Aspergillosis

Sneezing, Coughing, Lethargy, Loss of Appetite, Difficulty Breathing, Weight Loss

Egg Drop Syndrome

Lethargy, Loss of appetite, ruffled feathers, Loss of weight, Decreased egg production.

Pullorum Disease

Lack of Appetite, Weight Loss, Dehydration, Lethargy, Diarrhea, Pale Comb and Wattles, Ruffled Feathers

Vibriosis

Lack of appetite, Weight loss, Dehydration, Lethargy, Diarrhea, Pale comb, and wattles, ruffled feathers

Avian Tuberculosis

Loss of appetite, Weight loss, Lethargy, Coughing, Sneezing, Nasal discharge, Diarrhea, and Enlarged and swollen lymph nodes.

Histomoniasis

Weight loss, Lethargy, Diarrhea, Bloody droppings, Vomiting, Fever, and Loss of appetite.

Worm Infection

Weight loss, Lethargy, Diarrhea, Coughing, Vomiting, Loss of appetite, Pale and drooping comb and wattles, ruffled feathers, and Poor egg production.

Prevention of Common Diseases in Poultry Farm

Preventing common diseases in poultry farms is essential for maintaining healthy, productive flocks.

Good husbandry practices, biosecurity measures, and effective disease management will help keep your birds healthy.

1. Practice Good Husbandry

Good husbandry practices are essential for keeping disease out of the poultry farm. These include providing clean, dry bedding, providing adequate ventilation, and keeping feed and water containers clean. Also, separate sick birds from healthy birds and promptly dispose of dead birds.

2. Implement Biosecurity Measures

Biosecurity measures are important in preventing the spread of disease. Implementing biosecurity measures will help keep disease-causing viruses and bacteria from entering the farm.

These measures include limiting access to the farm, keeping visitors away from the birds, and cleaning and disinfecting all equipment and clothing that come into contact with the birds.

3. Vaccinate

Vaccinating your birds regularly is an important step in preventing disease. Consult with a veterinarian to determine which vaccines are necessary for your flock.

4. Monitor the Flock

Regularly monitor the flock for signs of disease, such as coughing, sneezing, diarrhea, or weight loss. If any of these signs are present, isolate the affected birds and consult a veterinarian.

5. Practice Good Sanitation

Good sanitation practices are essential for keeping disease out of your poultry farm. Clean and disinfect feeders, waterers, and other equipment regularly. Separate sick birds from healthy birds and dispose of dead birds promptly.

Treatment of Common Diseases in Poultry Farm

To ensure the health and safety of the poultry, it is important to recognize and treat common diseases in poultry farms as soon as they are detected. Treatment involves the administration of antibiotics and/or medications that contain common diseases.

Avian Influenza

Avian influenza, also known as bird flu, is an infectious disease caused by a type of influenza virus that primarily affects birds.

Treatment for avian influenza in poultry farms typically involves the use of antiviral drugs, such as amantadine, rimantadine, and oseltamivir.

Vaccination may also be used in some cases. Other management strategies, such as separating healthy birds from infected birds, controlling the movement of birds between farms, and minimizing contact between wild birds and domestic birds, may also be employed.

Newcastle Disease

Newcastle disease is an infectious disease caused by a type of avian paramyxovirus. Treatment of Newcastle disease in poultry farms typically involves the use of antiviral drugs, such as amantadine, rimantadine, and oseltamivir.

Coccidiosis

Coccidiosis is a disease caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Eimeria. Treatment of coccidiosis in poultry farms typically involves the use of anticoccidial drugs, such as monensin, narasin, salinomycin, and diclazuril.

Vaccination may also be used in some cases. Other management strategies, such as controlling the movement of birds between farms and minimizing contact between wild birds and domestic birds, may also be employed.

Infectious Bronchitis

Infectious bronchitis is an infectious disease caused by a type of coronavirus. Treatment of infectious bronchitis in poultry farms typically involves the use of antiviral drugs, such as amantadine, rimantadine, and oseltamivir. Vaccination may also be used in some cases.

Other management strategies, such as separating healthy birds from infected birds, controlling the movement of birds between farms, and minimizing contact between wild birds and domestic birds, may also be employed.

Salmonellosis

Salmonellosis is an infection caused by a type of bacteria known as Salmonella. Treatment for salmonellosis in poultry farms typically involves antibiotics, such as amoxicillin or ciprofloxacin, to help reduce the severity of the infection.

It is important to keep the birds well-hydrated during treatment. In addition, routine cleaning and disinfection of the poultry farm is essential for preventing the spread of the infection.

Mycoplasmosis

Mycoplasmosis is an infection caused by a group of bacteria known as mycoplasma. Treatment for this infection typically involves antibiotics, such as tetracyclines, to help reduce the severity of the infection.

It is important to keep the birds well-hydrated during treatment. In addition, routine cleaning and disinfection of the poultry farm is essential for preventing the spread of the infection.

Marek’s Disease

Marek’s disease is an infectious disease caused by a virus known as the Marek’s disease virus (MDV).

Treatment for Marek’s disease typically involves vaccination with a live attenuated vaccine. In addition, routine cleaning and disinfection of the poultry farm is essential for preventing the spread of the infection.

Fowl Cholera

Fowl cholera is an infectious disease caused by a bacteria known as Pasteurella multocida.

Treatment for fowl cholera typically involves antibiotics, such as tetracyclines or gentamicin, to help reduce the severity of the infection. It is important to keep the birds well-hydrated during treatment.

In addition, routine cleaning and disinfection of the poultry farm is essential for preventing the spread of the infection.

E. coli Infection Disease

E. coli infection disease is an infection caused by a type of bacteria known as Escherichia coli. Treatment for E. coli infection disease typically involves antibiotics, such as amoxicillin or ciprofloxacin, to help reduce the severity of the infection.

It is important to keep the birds well-hydrated during treatment. In addition, routine cleaning and disinfection of the poultry farm is essential for preventing the spread of the infection.

Infectious Laryngotracheitis

Infectious laryngotracheitis is a highly contagious viral respiratory disease that affects chickens, turkeys, and other poultry species.

Treatment of infectious laryngotracheitis includes vaccination, as well as supportive care such as providing a clean environment, proper nutrition, and medications to treat secondary bacterial infections.

Vaccination is the most effective way to protect poultry from the disease, and it should be done regularly.

Avian Gastric Yeast Infection

Avian gastric yeast infection is a common problem in poultry farms, and can cause poor performance, reduced egg production, and increased mortality.

Treatment of avian gastric yeast involves the use of antifungal drugs, such as ketoconazole, nystatin, or fluconazole.

Management practices such as improving the farm’s environment and providing a balanced diet are important for preventing the occurrence of avian gastric yeast.

Enteritis Is A Bacterial Disease

Enteritis is a bacterial disease caused by pathogenic E. coli and Salmonella species. Treatment of enteritis includes the use of antibiotics such as tetracycline, ampicillin, or enrofloxacin.

Supportive care such as providing nutritious feed, a clean environment, and proper ventilation can help prevent.

Aspergillosis

Aspergillosis is a fungal infection that affects poultry, particularly chickens. It is caused by the inhalation of spores from the fungus Aspergillus fumigatus.

Treatment of aspergillosis in poultry farms involves using disinfectants and fungicides to reduce the incidence of the disease. Additionally, proper ventilation, dust control, and proper nutrition can help reduce the chance of infection.

Egg Drop Syndrome

Egg Drop Syndrome is a viral disease that affects chickens, causing them to produce eggs with thin shells and reduced fertility rates.

Treatment for this disease includes vaccination, improved nutrition, and the use of antibiotics. A proper hygiene program should be implemented to help reduce the risk of infection.

Pullorum Disease

Pullorum Disease is a bacterial infection that affects poultry, particularly chickens. It is caused by the bacteria Salmonella pullorum.

Treatment of pullorum disease in poultry farms involves implementing a strict hygiene program and using antibiotics to treat infected birds. Vaccination is important in preventing the spread of this disease.

Vibriosis

Vibriosis is a bacterial infection caused by a number of different species of bacteria. The most common species found in poultry farms is Vibrio parahaemolyticus.

Treatment of vibriosis in poultry farms involves a combination of both preventive and therapeutic measures.

Therapeutic measures involve the use of antibiotics, such as tetracyclines, sulfonamides, and penicillins.

Antibiotics should be used at the appropriate dosage and should be administered for a prolonged period of time to ensure effective treatment.

Avian Tuberculosis

Avian tuberculosis is a bacterial disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium avium.

Treatment of avian tuberculosis in poultry farms involves the use of antibiotics, such as tetracyclines, sulfonamides, and penicillins.

Antibiotics should be used at the appropriate dosage and should be administered for a prolonged period of time to ensure effective treatment.

Histomoniasis

Histomoniasis is a parasitic disease caused by the protozoan Histomonas meleagridis.

Treatment of histomoniasis in poultry farms involves the use of antibiotics, such as tetracyclines and sulfadimethoxine.

Antibiotics should be used at the appropriate dosage and should be administered for a prolonged period of time to ensure effective treatment.

Worm Infection

Worm infection in poultry farms is caused by a number of different species of worms, such as roundworms, tapeworms, and gizzard worms.

Treatment of worm infection in poultry farms involves the use of anthelmintics, such as fenbendazole, ivermectin, and levamisole. Anthelmintics should be used at the appropriate dosage and should be administered for a prolonged period of time to ensure effective treatment.

Common Vaccinations for Poultry Farm

Here are some of the common vaccinations for poultry farm animals.

1. Newcastle Disease Vaccination

This is a highly contagious virus that can spread quickly among poultry, resulting in severe respiratory and nervous system illness. Vaccinating your chickens against Newcastle Disease is essential to protect their health and welfare.

2. Avian Influenza Vaccination

Avian influenza, also known as bird flu, is a highly contagious virus that can cause serious illness and death in poultry. Vaccinating your birds against avian influenza can help to reduce the risk of the virus spreading in your flock.

3. Infectious Bronchitis Vaccination

Infectious bronchitis is a respiratory disease in chickens that can cause severe respiratory illness, egg production drops, and decreased fertility. Vaccinating your birds against this virus can help to protect their health and well-being.

4. Infectious Laryngotracheitis Vaccination

Infectious laryngotracheitis is an airborne virus that causes respiratory illness, decreased egg production, and decreased fertility. Vaccinating your birds against this virus can help to protect their health and welfare.

5. Chicken Pox Vaccination

Chickenpox is a highly contagious virus that can cause severe respiratory illness, egg production drops, and decreased fertility. Vaccinating your birds against this virus can help to protect their health and welfare.

6. E. coli Vaccination

Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a type of bacteria that can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and fever in poultry. Vaccination is the most effective way to protect poultry against E. coli.

Diagnosis of Common Diseases in Poultry Farm

Diagnosing common diseases in poultry farms can be a difficult task. However, there are a few steps that can be taken to help diagnose and treat common diseases in poultry farms.

Step 1. Identify the Signs and Symptoms of the Disease

First, you need to identify the signs and symptoms of the disease that commonly occur in poultry farms. Common signs of diseases in poultry farms include coughing, sneezing, runny noses, diarrhea, ruffled feathers, and reduced egg production.

Once the signs and symptoms have been identified, it is important to determine the cause of the disease. This can be done by speaking to your veterinarian and performing a thorough examination of the birds.

Step 2. Test for the Presence of the Disease

The next step is to test for the presence of the disease. This can be done by taking a sample of the bird’s blood or tissue and sending it to a laboratory for analysis. Additionally, a fecal sample may be taken to test for the presence of parasites.

Step 3. Step Is To Treat The Birds

The final step is to treat the birds. Treatment depends on the type of disease and may include antibiotics, anti-parasitic drugs, vitamins, and other medications.

It is important to follow the vet’s instructions and provide proper nutrition for the birds.

Nutritional Considerations for Common Diseases in Poultry Farm

Nutrition is an important factor in maintaining the health and well-being of poultry. Proper nutrition is essential for optimal growth, performance, and egg production in poultry.

As such, it is important to consider the nutritional needs of poultry affected by common diseases.

Nutritional considerations for common diseases in poultry farms may include providing adequate energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals to meet the needs of the birds.

Providing appropriate feed form, feed intake, and nutrient density can help support the birds in managing the effects of the disease.

Ensuring appropriate levels of dietary fiber and specific antioxidants may also help support the birds in managing the effects of the disease.

As such, it is important to consult a nutritionist to determine the optimal nutritional needs of the birds in order to maintain their health and well-being.

What are the most Common Diseases in Chickens

Some of the most common diseases in chickens include avian influenza, coccidiosis, infectious coryza, mycoplasma, and Marek’s disease.

Avian influenza is a virus that causes respiratory and digestive illness in chickens and can be fatal.

Coccidiosis is an intestinal disease caused by a protozoal parasite and can be fatal if left untreated.

Infectious coryza is a bacterial disease that causes respiratory issues and must be treated with antibiotics.

Mycoplasma is another bacterial infection that affects respiratory and reproductive systems and can be treated with antibiotics.

Marek’s disease is a virus that affects the nervous system and can lead to paralysis and death.

Deadly Chicken Diseases

Deadly chicken diseases can have a major impact on poultry production. Some of the most common and deadly diseases are infectious bursal disease, Newcastle disease, avian influenza, and infectious bronchitis.

These diseases can be spread through contact with infected birds, contaminated equipment, or contaminated feed and water sources.

Vaccines and preventive measures are available to help protect poultry from these diseases.

Poultry Diseases Symptoms And Treatments Pdf

Poultry diseases can cause serious economic losses due to decreased production, death losses, and culling of birds. Symptoms of poultry diseases vary depending on the disease, but can include respiratory distress, decreased egg production, diarrhea, lameness, and decreased feed intake.

Treatment of poultry diseases depends on the cause and may include antibiotics, vaccinations, and supportive care.

Poultry owners should consult a veterinarian to determine the proper treatment for their birds.

Diseases Of Poultry Pdf

Diseases of poultry are a major cause of mortality and morbidity in the poultry industry. Common diseases include Newcastle disease, avian influenza, coccidiosis, infectious bursal disease, infectious laryngotracheitis, and Marek’s disease.

Prevention and control of these diseases require good biosecurity, proper nutrition and management, and timely vaccination.

Poultry Diseases Chart

A poultry diseases chart is a tool used to identify, diagnose and treat various diseases that can affect poultry. It is a visual chart that contains information on symptoms, causes, and treatments for common poultry diseases.

The chart can be used as a reference for farmers, veterinarians, and other poultry industry professionals.

Conclusion

Poultry farming is an important industry for food production. Unfortunately, poultry is prone to a variety of diseases and health issues. We have treated the common diseases that affect poultry farms here and we hope that by understanding the most common poultry diseases, you can better protect their birds and ensure the health of their flock.