ASPERGILLOSIS (BROODER PNEUMONIA)

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Causative Agent(s)

Aspergillus fumigatus or A. flavus, also called “brooder pneumonia”. Transmitted during hatching  or  when  older  by  inhaling  spores  from  contaminated  surroundings.

 

Clinical Presentation and Epidemiology

Respiratory distress in baby chicks (extending necks, open mouth gasping for air). Somnolence/nervous system signs, inappetence, emaciation, increased thirst. Encephalitic form is most common in turkeys.

Diagnostic Considerations

Culture or microscopic examination of fresh tissue preparations, characteristic necropsy findings.

Management and Treatment

Strict sanitation. Fumigate hatchers with formaldehyde or thiabendazole. Spray pens with nystatin. In outbreaks, a 1:2000 aqueous solution of copper sulphate for all drinking water may be used to aid in preventing the spread.