Aspergillosis in Poultry a Critical Overview

Abstract

Aspergillosis is a respiratory ailment predominantly affecting turkeys, chickens, humans, and various mammals, with less frequent occurrences in pigeons, ducks, geese, and other domestic and wild birds. It is caused by a fungus belonging to the Aspergillus genus. On farms, the disease may be endemic among chickens and turkeys, while in wild birds, it appears sporadic, often affecting individual birds. Typically, immature birds aged 7 to 40 days exhibit the disease. Due to the widespread presence of Aspergillus spp., the condition can be found in environments conducive to its growth. Aspergillosis is commonly attributed to Aspergillus fumigatus, although several other mold species, including A. flavus, A. niger, Rhizopus sp., Mucor sp., and Penicillium sp., may also be responsible. Infection usually occurs through the inhalation of spore-filled dust from contaminated dusty areas. The disease manifests in two forms: acute, affecting birds that have ingested large spore quantities, and chronic, affecting birds with suppressed immune systems. Diagnosis in poultry involves various methods, with culturing being essential due to the nonspecific clinical signs. Aspergillosis lacks effective treatment; hence, prevention is crucial. Implementing good management practices, such as maintaining sanitation, avoiding damp litter or soil, steering clear of moldy or dusty feeds, ensuring adequate ventilation, and sterilizing feed and water systems, is essential for disease prevention and control.