Signs to watch closely
Infectious coryza is a contagious disease of the respiratory tract. It may present as swelling around the eyes and sinuses, sometimes on only one side at first. Also check whether the hens have nasal discharge, watery or stuck-together eyes, sneezing, noisy breathing or reduced appetite. Egg production may also decrease.
These symptoms are not enough to confirm coryza: other respiratory infections can look similar, and several problems can coexist in the same poultry farm. So avoid making a diagnosis based solely on a photo or a single sign.
The first measures in the chicken coop
As soon as you identify affected birds, limit their contact with the rest of the flock. If you have a suitable space, isolate them and use separate equipment to care for them. Start your visits with healthy poultry and finish with the suspected cases. Wash your hands and clean your shoes and equipment before moving from one poultry house to another.
Check the ventilation: the air must be renewed without a direct draught on the hens. Keep the litter dry, remove soiled areas and make sure the drinkers remain clean. Leave fresh water easily accessible. These actions improve rearing conditions, but do not replace appropriate treatment if an infection is confirmed.
Seek advice before treating
Contact a veterinarian or competent technician quickly, especially if symptoms multiply, the birds have difficulty breathing or their water and feed consumption falls. Note the date when the signs appeared, the poultry houses affected and how they develop. This information will help guide the examination and, if necessary, the taking of samples.
Do not administer antibiotics at random or reuse an old prescription. The choice of medicine, its duration of use and precautions concerning eggs or meat must be determined with a professional. Inappropriate treatment can mask symptoms, delay the correct diagnosis and promote antibiotic resistance.
Reducing risks over time
Clean and disinfect the poultry houses and equipment between flocks, following the instructions for the product used. Avoid mixing poultry from different origins or of different ages without taking precautions. Limit visits to chicken coops and ask a professional for advice on drawing up a health plan, particularly regarding vaccination when appropriate.
In Côte d'Ivoire, if you observe a swollen face or respiratory signs, isolate the suspected cases, strengthen hygiene and seek professional advice quickly: acting early helps protect the rest of the flock.
--- *Source: NEXTEKCI — In-house expertise — summary and analysis by NEXTEKCI.*