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Tips to protect your farm from Blackhead Disease
Blackhead disease, or histomoniasis, is a disease that can do a lot of damage in your barn. Turkeys are especially susceptible, but mother birds, free-range chickens and other birds can also get sick.
Consequence? Less productive animals and higher vet costs. The disease is difficult to treat, so prevention is the smartest approach. This page tells you what you need to know to get ahead of problems.
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What causes Blackhead Disease in poultry?
Blackhead disease is caused by Histomonas meleagridis, a microscopic parasite that attacks the liver and ceca (a part of the digestive system). This parasite hitches a ride inside the eggs of the cecal worm (Heterakis gallinarum). These worms live in infected manure, soil and even earthworms. Thus, the infection remains in the environment for years.
How Blackhead Disease spreads
- Entry to the farm:
Parasite eggs can enter via wild bird droppings or contaminated vehicles and equipment. - Survival host:
The parasite survives inside the roundworm Heterakis gallinarum. - Within the flock:
Infected chickens excrete the parasite in their feces, spreading it to others. - Cloacal drinking:
Chickens can take in parasite eggs through the cloaca via reverse peristalsis.
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What are the symptoms of Blackhead Disease/Histomoniasis?
Farmers should watch for these warning signs:
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- Darkening of the head and skin (hence the name 'blackhead')
- Reduced appetite
- Lethargy
- Droopy wings and ruffled feathers
- Yellowish diarrhea
The 4 steps to prevent Blackhead Disease/Histomoniasis at poultry farming
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Deworming
Regular deworming helps reduce the risk of Heterakis gallinarum infections. Check regularly for worm infections and adjust deworming schedule as necessary.:format(webp))
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