And as for the whole chicken, certain diseases pose a threat as grave as gumboro, even more so as a sack of infectious (mii). This viral disease can penetrate through the pulp that causing devastating damage, particularly in small birds. If you are a hindic chicken guard or a business manufacturer, take note that ghuloro’s bases can make all the difference.
What is Gumboro?
Gumboro is a highly contagious viral disease that is mostly prevalent in new, mostly at the age of 3 to 6 weeks. The disease infects the manufacturing bag, a vital organ that is involved in the development of birds’ immunity. Once infected, a bird’s immunity against other infections is greatly reduced.
The disease has been reported in Gumboro, Delaware, US, also known by its name. It will be a global issue in bird production, particularly in areas of low bio-safety.
Causes and Transmission
Gumboro is caused by the Infectious Bursal Disease Virus (IBDV), which is a member of the family Birnaviridae. It is very contagious through:
- Contaminated water and feed
- Infected feces
- Shoes, clothing, and equipment
- Direct contact with infected birds
The virus is highly resistant in the environment and can last for months, which makes it hard to eradicate once it’s already in a flock.
Signs and Symptoms
Chickens with Gumboro infection tend to exhibit the following signs:
- Abrupt decline in feed and water consumption
- Ruffled plumage
- Diarrhea
- Shaking or weakness
- Dehydration
- Very high mortality rates (up to 60% in severe outbreaks)
In certain instances, birds will die suddenly without exhibiting many outward signs, particularly if the strain is highly virulent.
Types of Feed for Breeder Chickens
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is typically made based on:
- Clinical signs
- Post-mortem examination (swollen, hemorrhagic, or shrunk bursa)
- Laboratory tests (PCR, ELISA, virus isolation)
Veterinary consultation is important to establish Gumboro and rule out other similar poultry diseases.
Prevention and Control
There is no cure for Gumboro once chickens have been infected. That’s why prevention is important:
Types of Feed for Broiler Chicks
Vaccination
Vaccination is the most consistent means of protecting your flock. Live and inactivated vaccines are used, usually through drinking water or eye drops.
Biosecurity
- Restrict access to your poultry facility
- Disinfect equipment, housing, and footwear regularly
- Don’t introduce new birds without quarantine
- Regulate the movement of people and vehicles on the farm
Hygiene
Keeping living conditions clean and dry for your birds minimizes the risk of infection significantly.
Vaccination Schedule for Broiler Chicks
Economic Impact
For commercial poultry farms, Gumboro can result in:
- Enormous loss due to bird mortality
- Decreased productivity in the remaining chickens
- Increased susceptibility to additional diseases
- Increased cost due to vaccination and biosecurity practices
In developing nations, the effect is particularly more serious, tending to jeopardize the livelihood of smallholder farmers.
Final Thoughts
Gumboro can be wonderful, but it is non-enforceable. The proper vaccination of the security of biology and diagnosis first can assist you in saving your birds and diminishing the losses. If you are engaged in the birds business, being knowledgeable and proactive is your best protective line against the silent but deadly disease.
