A B C D E F G H I L M N O P R S T U V W

Ascarids

Ascarids (Large Intestinal Roundworms)

Ascaridiosis, caused by the nematode worm Ascaridia galli, is a common parasitic infection affecting chickens and turkeys. These large roundworms, reaching over 3 inches in length, can significantly impact poultry health and productivity.

Impact and Clinical Signs

  • Reduced feed utilization: Adult worms compete with the host for nutrients, leading to weight loss and poor growth, even in mild infections.
  • Diarrhea and weakness: Severe infections can cause diarrhea, droopiness, and emaciation.
  • Egg contamination: In rare cases, adult worms can migrate through the oviduct, becoming enclosed within the egg whites. While aesthetically unpleasant, this poses no human health risk.

Life Cycle and Transmission

  • Simple and direct lifecycle: Adult worms lay eggs in the intestines, passed out in feces.
  • Embryonated eggs: Develop within the eggs over 2-3 weeks, becoming infective.
  • Hardy eggs: Can survive up to two years in the environment, resistant to most disinfectants.
  • Transmission: Birds become infected by ingesting infective eggs from contaminated soil, feed, or water.

Diagnosis and Treatment

  • Clinical signs and history: Suggestive, but definitive diagnosis requires fecal examination or necropsy.
  • Limited treatment options: Available drugs only target adult worms, not the developing larvae.
  • Piperazine: The preferred treatment, effective against adult worms, administered according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Prevention and Control

  • Strict sanitation: Regular cleaning and disinfection of housing, equipment, and utensils help break the transmission cycle.
  • Age segregation: Minimize contact between young and older birds, as younger birds are more susceptible.
  • Rotation of range: Provide clean, uncontaminated ranges for each new flock, if birds are free-range.
  • Biosecurity: Limit the introduction of new birds and implement quarantine procedures to prevent parasite introduction.
  • Vaccination: While vaccines exist, their effectiveness is limited and not widely recommended.

Comparison with other worm infections

  • Heterakis (cecal worm): Smaller worms located in the ceca, causing similar symptoms but controlled through similar sanitation practices.
  • Capillaria worms: Diverse group with varied locations and symptoms, typically requiring specific anthelmintics for treatment.

Additional Information

  • Public health risk: Ascaridia galli is not zoonotic and poses no risk to humans consuming poultry or eggs.
  • Economic impact: Ascaridiosis can significantly impact poultry production by reducing egg production, slowing growth, and increasing mortality.
  • Research and development: Ongoing research aims to develop more effective control methods, including improved anthelmintics and alternative strategies for worm management.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as veterinary advice. Always consult with a qualified veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment of poultry diseases.

Resources

Billy O.

Biosystems Engineer who writes. Email: billy@agriculture.co.ke Phone: 0714-004949

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