Poultry Coccidiosis: A Hidden Threat to Healthy Flocks

Coccidiosis is one of the most significant parasitic diseases affecting commercial and backyard poultry flocks globally. It is caused by a number of Eimeria species, which infiltrate the intestinal lining, hinder the absorption of nutrients, and stunted growth and production. Poor feed intake, depression, ruffled feathers, diarrhoea (often bloody), dehydration, weight loss, and increased mortality especially in young chickens are common symptoms of infected birds. Early diagnosis and treatment with the right anticoccidial drugs or supportive therapy can prevent production losses and lessen the severity of the illness. Long-term control, however, depends on an integrated management strategy that includes vaccination or the strategic application of anticoccidial drugs, stringent biosecurity, appropriate litter management, healthy diet, and routine flock health monitoring. By implementing these evidence-based preventive strategies, the financial burden of coccidiosis is lessened and disease outbreaks, bird welfare, and sustainable chicken production are all improved