Fowlpox is a viral disease caused by Avipoxvirus affecting various poultry species. It occurs in two forms: dry (cutaneous) and wet (diphtheritic). The virus is highly resistant in the environment and can survive for months in dried scabs.
SYMPTOMS
CAUSES
PREVENTION
TREATMENT
Symptoms
- Chickens and Turkeys:
- Dry Form:
- Wart-like lesions on unfeathered skin
- Nodules on comb, wattles, and face
- Scab formation
- Reduced egg production
- Wet Form:
- Yellow patches in mouth/throat
- Difficulty breathing
- Reduced feed intake
- Higher mortality rate
- Dry Form:
Causes
- Viral Characteristics:
- DNA virus of Poxviridae family
- Highly resistant to environmental conditions
- Species-specific strains
- Transmission Routes:
- Mosquitoes (primary vector)
- Direct contact with infected birds
- Contact with contaminated surfaces
- Through skin wounds
- Respiratory exposure
Prevention Methods
- Vaccination:
- Regular vaccination programs
- Age-appropriate scheduling
- Biosecurity:
- Mosquito control
- Proper sanitation
- Isolation of new birds
- Control of wild birds
- Clean water supply
- Management:
- Proper ventilation
- Wound prevention
- Regular monitoring
- Record keeping
Treatment options
- Direct Treatment:
- No specific antiviral treatment
- Focus on supportive care
- Prevention of secondary infections
- Supportive Care:
- Clean water access
- Soft food provision
- Vitamin A supplementation
- Antibiotics for secondary infections
- Management During Outbreak:
- Isolation of affected birds
- Environmental cleaning
- Vector control
- Monitoring of flock
Key Points:
- Prevention is crucial
- Disease runs its course in 2-4 weeks
- Recovery provides long-term immunity
- Economic impact through reduced production
- Zoonotic potential is negligible
Conclusion: Fowlpox remains a significant concern in poultry production. While treatment options are limited, proper supportive care can help reduce losses.