Disinfecting for coccidiosis: getting the treatment right
It is well recognized that coccidiosis is a disease that can significantly compromise the productivity and welfare of a poultry flock (and other livestock). The parasite which causes it (of the genus Eimeria) is ever-present in the shed and farm environment, but it often becomes more of an issue in autumn when the temperature is still relatively warm and humidity is higher. This creates ideal conditions for Eimeria oocysts to sporulate and multiply (read more about its life cycle here). Whilst it is impossible to eradicate coccidiosis from the farm entirely, it is vital to limit a young bird’s exposure to the infectious oocysts at the start of a crop, as the bird has had little chance to develop any immunity. This can be achieved by following a few key points when disinfecting at turnaround.