Colibacillosis

Colibacillosis (Coliform infections) refers to bacterial infections caused by strains of the Escherichia coli organism. These infections can vary greatly in severity, ranging from acute septicemia to mild chronic infections. They may result in respiratory disease, septicemia, enteritis, or a combination of conditions. Coliform infections can occur as primary infections from E. coli or as secondary infections complicating other diseases.

Causes:

• Primary infections: Caused by highly pathogenic E. coli strains.
• Secondary infections: Complicates other diseases like Mycoplasmosis (Mycoplasma gallisepticum).
• Predisposing factors: Stress, poor sanitation, overcrowding, and other diseases.

Clinical signs:

• Acute septicemia: Sudden death, listlessness, ruffled feathers, fever, labored breathing, coughing, diarrhea.
• Airsacculitis: Difficulty breathing, gasping, coughing, and rattling sounds in the lungs.
• Enteritis: Diarrhea, dehydration, weight loss, loss of appetite.
• Navel infections: Swollen navel, weakness, diarrhea (in young birds).

Treatment:

• Limited effectiveness: Response to medication varies, often disappointing.
• Drug sensitivity testing: Crucial to selecting the most effective antibiotics.
• Management practices:
  • Reduce exposure: improve ventilation, litter, and range conditions, sanitize equipment, and control other diseases.
  • Reduce stress: avoid overcrowding, environmental stresses, and unnecessary handling.
  • Enhance bird health: provide high-quality feed and water, and maintain optimal husbandry practices.
• Moving birds: Shifting to a clean environment can be more effective than medication in some cases.

Additional notes:

• Diagnosis requires laboratory confirmation, as symptoms can resemble other diseases.
• Prevention remains the best approach through comprehensive management strategies.
• Vaccination against specific E. coli strains may be used in some situations.

Disclaimer

This information is for general education only and does not constitute or substitute veterinary advice or diagnosis. Individual conditions vary and you should always consult a qualified veterinarian for a detailed diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your own livestock or poultry.