Colibacillosis in layers
The most common poultry disease, colibacillosis, is caused by E. coli, which can be transmitted via eggs, feed and water. Colibacillosis can significantly influence use of and resistance to antibiotics. The most used antibiotic for E. coli is under pressure in most countries due to AMR risk for humans.
How to recognise
Collibocillosis appears around the peak of egg production and remains the rest of the cycle. Often the only clear symptom of colibacillosis in layers is moderate mortality. It often occurs together with other diseases, which can make it difficult to control. A veterinarian can diagnose during sections of the layers, and his diagnosis of other present diseases, will help defining good control program. This disease is the primary cause of dirty eggs and can significantly affect the rate of egg production.
The impact on the farmer
Colibacillosis impacts performance and one of the main causes of early mortalitis. It causes several diseases, for which often antibiotics are used. In case of cellulitis you can get additional financial losses due to condemnations at the slaughterhouse.
We continue to seek better ways to prevent the most common disease of poultry, colibacillosis, which remains one of the main challenges for layers worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did you check the microbial quality of your drinking water?
Your drinking water may be a main cause of infection for layers, but can be easily improved with Selko pH.
Do your layers have other health challenges, such as viral diseases?
Evaluate if colibacillosis represents a secondary infection in your flock; and if so, focus first on resolving the primary cause.