How to Treat Coccidiosis in Poultry in Kenya
Kelvin Wairimu 
As a chicken farmer, you may have experienced the devastating effects of coccidiosis, which can wipe out your entire flock.
The disease often begins with chickens dropping feathers, followed by yellow diarrhoea or faeces that may contain blood or resemble a blighted orange mucus. Within a few days, infected chicks may die.
What is Coccidiosis?
Coccidiosis is a severe disease caused by a protozoan parasite that targets the intestinal tract of chickens. It is one of the most common diseases affecting poultry, leading to significant mortality in extreme cases.
The parasites reside and reproduce within the intestinal cells of infected birds. They are shed in the faeces and can survive in the environment for at least 365 days, contaminating feed, water, and litter.
When healthy birds ingest the parasite eggs, the life cycle begins anew, resulting in further infection and transmission.
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After ingestion, the parasite undergoes a complex life cycle in the intestinal tract, replicating and rupturing intestinal cells. The infected birds then shed oocysts (the parasite eggs) in their faeces.
What Are the Signs of Coccidiosis?
You can identify coccidiosis in your chickens by observing the following signs:
- Diarrhoea: Look for bloody diarrhoea or droppings that are brown or yellow.
- Reduced Appetite: Infected birds often show little interest in feeds and water.
- Weakness: Chickens may appear weak and lethargic.
- Feather Condition: Affected birds may exhibit ruffled feathers and pale combs, indicating anaemia and overall poor health.
Severe cases often lead to high mortality rates, especially in young chickens due to their low immunity.
How to Control Coccidiosis
To effectively control coccidiosis, maintain high levels of biosecurity, which includes cleanliness. Disinfect the coop as often as possible using a Disinfectant like Norocleanse. Administering any medication without cleaning and removing faeces will be ineffective.
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Consider implementing a footbath at the entrance to prevent the introduction of ‘parasite eggs’ from other farms. Also, regulate access to the coop.
Best Drugs for Coccidiosis
Administer Amprocox along with any poultry vitamins. Amprolium, a drug that interferes with the metabolism of coccidia, also works effectively.
For the safety of both meat and eggs, be sure to adhere to the recommended withdrawal periods after drug administration.
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