Microscopic investigation of poultry coccidiosis and associated risk factors in farms in gondar, Ethiopia.

Abstract

Coccidiosis is a common disease in poultry caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Eimeria, affecting the gut of domestic and wild birds. Seven Eimeria species (E. acervulina, E. brunetti, E. maxima, E. mitis, E. necatrix, E. praecox, and E. tenella) are recognized to infect poultry. A cross-sectional study was conducted from February to July 2024 to determine the prevalence of coccidiosis and its risk factors in poultry farms around Gondar Town, Ethiopia. A total of 384 poultry samples were collected using simple random sampling, considering different management systems, sex, breed, and age. Fecal samples were analyzed in the laboratory. The overall prevalence of coccidiosis was 22.4%, with five Eimeria species identified: E. tenella, E. necatrix, E. maxima, E. acervulina, and E. brunetti. The prevalence of single-species infection (20.03%) was higher than mixed infections (2.34%), with E. brunetti being the most prevalent, followed by E. maxima. The highest infection rate (24.35%) was observed in chickens aged 2-8 weeks, though no statistically significant difference was found between age groups. Intensive management systems had a higher infection rate (28.41%) compared to semi-intensive systems, However, this difference was not statistically significant. The study concluded that age, management systems and body condition were main risk factors for coccidiosis, while sex, breed, and production purpose showed no significant association with infection rates. Despite a reduction in prevalence, coccidiosis remains a significant challenge for poultry farmers and veterinary professionals in the region. Improved management practices, including enhanced biosecurity measures and regular monitoring are recommended to reduce the prevalence of coccidiosis in the study area.