Avian Mycoplasmosis is a bacterial disease caused by several Mycoplasma species, primarily M. gallisepticum (MG) and M. synoviae (MS). These bacteria are unique because they lack a cell wall and affect the respiratory and musculoskeletal systems of poultry.
SYMPTOMS
CAUSES
PREVENTION
TREATMENT
Symptoms
- Chickens:
- Respiratory rales and coughing
- Nasal discharge
- Reduced egg production (10-20%)
- Reduced growth rate
- Swollen sinuses
- Conjunctivitis
- Turkeys:
- Severe respiratory distress
- Marked sinusitis
- Foamy eye discharge
- Significant weight loss
- Higher mortality rates
- Swollen infraorbital sinuses
- Layer Hens:
- Drop in egg production
- Poor egg shell quality
- Respiratory signs
- Reduced feed efficiency
Causes and modes of transmission
- Primary Causes:
- Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG)
- Mycoplasma synoviae (MS)
- Mycoplasma meleagridis (MM)
- Transmission Routes:
- Vertical (through eggs)
- Direct bird-to-bird contact
- Airborne transmission
- Contaminated equipment
- Through infected breeder flocks
Prevention strategies
- Biosecurity:
- Clean breeding stock
- All-in-all-out production
- Isolation of infected flocks
- Regular testing programs
- Proper cleaning/disinfection
- Management:
- Mycoplasma-free breeding stock
- Regular monitoring
- Stress reduction
- Proper ventilation
- Vaccination programs
Treatment options
- Antibiotics:
- Tylosin
- Tetracyclines
- Fluoroquinolones
- Tiamulin
- Supportive Care:
- Vitamin supplementation
- Improved ventilation
- Stress reduction
- Electrolyte balance
Conclusion: This disease requires ongoing vigilance and proper management strategies for effective control.