Avian Cholera is a severe bacterial disease caused by Pasteurella multocida, affecting various poultry species. It’s highly contagious and can cause significant mortality in affected flocks.
SYMPTOMS
CAUSES
PREVENTION
TREATMENT
Symptoms
- Acute Form (All Species):
- Sudden death without prior signs
- High mortality rates
- Yellow-green diarrhea
- Mucus discharge from mouth
- Increased respiratory rate
- Cyanotic wattles and combs
- Specific Manifestations:
- Chickens:
- Ruffled feathers
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Reduced egg production
- Turkeys:
- Dark blue/purple discoloration of head
- Severe respiratory distress
- Lameness
- Joint swelling
- Waterfowl:
- Swimming in circles
- Head pulled close to body
- Convulsions
- Bloody discharge from nostrils
- Chickens:
Causes and Transmission
- Causative Agent:
- Bacterium Pasteurella multocida
- Multiple strains with varying virulence
- Transmission Routes:
- Direct bird-to-bird contact
- Contaminated water/feed
- Nasal/oral discharges
- Contaminated equipment
- Wild bird carriers
Prevention Strategies
- Biosecurity:
- Strict sanitation protocols
- Control of wild birds
- Clean water supply
- Regular disinfection
- Proper disposal of dead birds
- Management:
- Stress reduction
- Good ventilation
- Proper stocking density
- Vaccination programs
- Regular health monitoring
Treatment Options
- Immediate Actions:
- Antibiotic treatment (under veterinary guidance)
- Isolation of affected birds
- Enhanced biosecurity
- Water sanitization
- Supportive Care:
- Electrolyte supplementation
- Vitamin therapy
- Temperature management
Conclusion:
Treatment success depends on early detection and immediate intervention. Prevention is more effective than treatment.
