Anticoccidial-free management strategies in selected poultry farms in Bbaale county, Kayunga district, Uganda

Abstract

The research was an applied research addressing the challenge of controlling coccidiosis in poultry without relying on anticoccidial. With the purpose of assessing the effectiveness of anticoccidal-free management strategies in control and prevention of coccidiosis in selected poultry farms and the specific objectives of determining the Prevalence of Coccidiosis in the selected poultry farms, identifying the anticoccidial free farming practices poultry farmers use in the management of coccidiosis and identifying the challenges farmers face while implementing the anticoccidial-free management strategies in the selected poultry farms. Survey and Interviews, Field Observations: Experimental Design, Data Collection, and Statistical Analysis were the methods used. Lab tests indicated no detection of Eimeria oocysts in the sampled poultry, suggesting effective management practices. However, continuous monitoring is essential to maintain this status and respond quickly to potential outbreaks. Farmers exhibited strong awareness of coccidiosis symptoms, which may enhance their ability to manage and control the disease. Farmers predominantly employed multi-drug regimens, with amprolium as a key treatment. Farmers emphasized adhering to recommended dosages and rotating drug classes to prevent resistance development, ensuring treatment efficacy and safety. High-quality feeding practices, including maintaining cleanliness and gradual dietary changes, were recognized as vital for preventing stress and disease. A tiered approach to monitoring coccidiosis was evident, with regular flock health monitoring as the foundational method. Record-keeping complemented this monitoring, particularly for intensive surveillance. The combination of monitoring, fecal examinations, and record-keeping was employed when heightened vigilance was necessary, facilitating early detection and impact analysis. Common biosecurity measures included limiting access to poultry houses, preventing contact with wild animals, proper manure management, quarantining new birds, and providing foot baths and clean clothing. These practices were essential in preventing the spread of coccidiosis. While improved hygiene and sanitation were widely adopted, the use of probiotics and herbal supplements was also popular among those exploring anticoccidial-free strategies. Natural resistance breeding was mentioned less frequently but was included in some management combinations. Several barriers hindered the widespread adoption of anticoccidial-free management strategies, including high costs, labor intensity, limited knowledge, market resistance, and environmental challenges. It’s recommended to encourage the adoption of vaccination programs to build immunity against coccidiosis, assessing their feasibility and cost-effectiveness locally, promote awareness among farmers about the benefits of vaccination as a preventive measure.