Gapeworm/Syngamus trachea

Gapeworm (Syngamus trachea) is a parasitic nematode that infects the trachea of birds, causing respiratory distress. The name comes from the characteristic “gaping” behavior as birds attempt to breathe.

SYMPTOMS
CAUSES
PREVENTION
TREATMENT

Symptoms

  • Common in All Poultry:
    • Gasping with stretched neck (“gaping”)
    • Coughing and head-shaking
    • Difficulty breathing
    • Weight loss
    • Reduced growth
    • Death in severe cases
  • Specific Manifestations:
    • Chickens:
      • Most susceptible at 2-12 weeks
      • Severe respiratory distress
      • Reduced growth rate
    • Turkeys:
      • Higher susceptibility than chickens
      • More severe symptoms
      • Higher mortality rates

Causes

  • Parasite Lifecycle:
    • Direct lifecycle through infected birds
    • Indirect through transport hosts (earthworms, slugs)
    • Eggs passed in feces
    • Infective larvae develop in soil
  • Transmission Routes:
    • Ingestion of infected earthworms
    • Direct ingestion of eggs/larvae
    • Contaminated soil/water
    • Transport hosts

Prevention

  • Environmental Management:
    • Regular pasture rotation
    • Proper drainage
    • Keeping grass short
    • Limiting access to wet areas
  • Biosecurity:
    • Regular cleaning/disinfection
    • Control of transport hosts
    • Separate young from adult birds
    • Clean water sources

Treatment Options

  • Medical Treatment:
    • Anthelmintic medications
    • Fenbendazole
    • Levamisole
    • Ivermectin
  • Supportive Care:
    • Good nutrition
    • Clean environment
    • Stress reduction
    • Regular monitoring

Key Management Points:

  • Regular deworming program
  • Environmental control
  • Monitoring young birds
  • Quick intervention when symptoms appear

Note: Treatment success depends on early detection and proper medication administration. Prevention through good management is key to control.