Infectious Coryza is an acute respiratory disease caused by the bacterium Avibacterium paragallinarum (formerly Haemophilus paragallinarum). It primarily affects chickens and has significant economic impact due to decreased egg production and growth retardation.
SYMPTOMS
CAUSES
PREVENTION
TREATMENT
Symptoms
- Chickens:
- Facial swelling
- Swollen eyes
- Nasal discharge
- Watery eyes
- Swollen wattles and combs
- Decreased feed consumption
- Drop in egg production (10-40%)
- Sneezing and respiratory sounds
- Foul-smelling discharge
- Note: Turkeys and waterfowl are generally not affected by this disease.
Causes and transmission
- Bacterial Characteristics:
- Gram-negative bacterium
- Short survival outside host
- Multiple serotypes exist
- Transmission Routes:
- Direct bird-to-bird contact
- Airborne droplets
- Contaminated water and feed
- Equipment and fomites
- Recovered carrier birds
Prevention strategies
- Biosecurity:
- Isolation of new birds
- Proper cleaning and disinfection
- Proper ventilation
- Vaccination:
- Timing crucial for effectiveness
- Multiple serotype coverage needed
- Regular booster programs
- Management:
- Age segregation
- Stress reduction
- Clean water supply
- Regular health monitoring
Treatment options
- Antibiotic Treatment:
- Sulfonamides
- Tetracyclines
- Erythromycin
- Based on sensitivity testing
- Supportive Care:
- Vitamin supplementation
- Electrolyte balance
- Temperature management
- Isolation of affected birds
Conclusion: Resistance to antibiotics is increasing, making prevention increasingly important.
