Coccidiosis and histomoniasis are ubiquitous problems for poultry producers. Recent studies have suggested that using a blend of plant extracts could help reduce symptoms of infection and improve production outcomes.
By Catherine Fudge
Graduate research assistant, poultry science
University of Georgia
Histomoniasis is nothing new to turkey producers, yet treatment options remain a major challenge. Bans of therapeutic and prophylactic compounds in several countries in recent years have only added to outbreak risks, emphasizing the need for alternative control strategies.
Abrupt rises in mortality from highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) can set off alarms at any poultry farm. Such was the case last year with an outbreak in a layer flock in Iowa.
Darkling beetle species were the most abundant type of insect recorded in a study exploring potential vectors of Histomonas meleagridis, the protozoan pathogen which causes the common broiler breeder disease histomoniasis.
