CHaPteR 5 Common Diseases and ailments of turkeys and their Management

18 Pages·2008·0.29 MB·English

How to Raise HeRitage tuRkeys on PastuRe
CHaPteR 5
Common Diseases and ailments of turkeys
and their Management
By Calvert Larson, Virginia Tech Poultry Specialist, Retired; Jeannette Beranger, Research
& Technical Program Manager, American Livestock Breeds Conservancy; Marjorie Bender,
Research & Technical Programs Manager, American Livestock Breeds Conservancy; Don
Schrider, Communications Director, American Livestock Breeds Conservancy
Standard turkey varieties are hardy and robust birds that biosecurity practices begin in the brooder and should
are easily managed, provided basic precautionary mea- continue throughout the birds’ lives. Young poults are at
sures are taken to ensure their health and welfare. Good the most vulnerable age in a turkey’s life and will need
flock health begins with obtaining eggs or stock from time to build up their immune systems before being
reputable suppliers with disease-free flocks. At the very exposed to the outdoors or potential vectors for disease.
least, the flock of origin should be certified through Once the birds are out on pasture, rotational manage-
the National Poultry Improvement Program (NPIP) of ment of the birds on the land will protect against over-
USDA. This is a certification given to flocks that are grazing and the buildup of any pathogens they shed into
regularly tested and pronounced clean of several poul- the soil. (See Chapter 3, Pasturing Turkeys, for more
try diseases once common in the United States. Flocks information on rotational pasture management.) Keep
may also participate in the Avian Influenza Surveillance food and water inaccessible to pest species by placing
program as an added measure of biosecurity. them in receptacles that are not easy for these species
to gain entry. Move food and water sites often to avoid
Any new stock that is obtained should be identified
the accumulation of feces, moisture, and dropped food
with bands or toe punches, maintained together in their
around feed areas.
source groups, and quarantined for at least 30 days prior
to introduction to the main flock. Source identification Vaccination may be a good option for protecting
(wing or leg bands, tattoos, etc.) enables the producer to flocks against some diseases. The vaccines available
know where each bird comes from if problems of any for turkeys are: Fowl Cholera, Turkey Pox, Avian
kind develop after the 30-day quarantine. Encephalomyelitis, and Newcastle Disease. However,
vaccination should be used only when birds are at risk
The practice of vigilant observation enables a pro-
for a certain or specific disease. Check with your state’s
ducer to detect illness early on in the flock and take
agricultural extension service or the state veterinarian’s
measures to correct the problem before it spreads or
office to learn which diseases may be prevalent in your
becomes serious. Observe all birds several times a day
area, and if restrictions apply.
to become familiar with their normal behavior. Birds
may not show obvious signs of illness until a disease Building and maintaining the health of the flock is the
is in an advanced state. Some individual birds remain strongest defense in the fight against any disease. Birds
healthy even though they are carriers of disease. When should get plenty of exercise and are healthiest when
stressed, these carriers shed disease organisms. Stress fed more than just the basic necessities. Vitamin and
is an underlying factor in a bird’s ability to naturally mineral supplements and probiotics can be used to in-
combat pathogens. Keep stress to a minimum. Provide a crease vigor and ability to remain healthy. Fresh, clean
comfortable and relaxed farm environment at all times. water is an absolute necessity at all times.
Consistent schedule and handling procedures will mini-
On the following pages is a list of ailments and dis-
mize stress.
eases that can be associated with turkeys. Much of the
Following basic sanitary and biosecurity measures is information in the table has been adapted from Turkey
often the most important preventative of the vast major- Management by Marsden and Martin (1), along with
ity of diseases and ailments that can occur with turkeys. numerous other sources that are listed in the Resources
(These precautionary measures are covered in detail in section at the end of the chapter.
Chapter 7, Health Promotion and Biosecurity.) Good
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How to Raise HeRitage tuRkeys on PastuRe
Deformities, injuries, and Behavioral or situational Problems
Problem symptoms Likely Causes Prevention and treatment
Feather Birds may pluck their own feathers One or more stressors includ- Calculate available space
Picking and or the plumage of other birds. This ing crowding, bright light, dietary on your farm before ordering
Cannibalism can escalate to attack and/or in- deficiencies (esp. salt), insuf- poults. Provide proper nutrition
jury of birds within the flock. Other ficient feeding or watering, lack and water sources. Provide
signs include blood and swelling of space, or boredom can cause high fiber feeds such as whole
at the vent. feather picking and cannibalism. oats (free choice) during peri-
For turkeys the sight and smell of ods of feather picking or can-
blood induces increased pecking. nibalism to reduce these be-
Movement of the vent during def- haviors. Separate injured birds
ecation, especially when swollen until their wounds are healed
and bloody, attracts pecking. and will no longer attract the
pecking of others in the flock.
Insect Attack Bite welts are found around the Lack of shelter is the most com- An open-sided range shel-
head and occasionally under mon cause. ter seems to protect turkeys
feathers. somewhat against insects.
Bumblefoot This condition manifests as a hard Stress, overcrowding, poor sani- Avoid overcrowding and pro-
swelling of the center of the foot tation, poor diet, roosts that are vide appropriate nutrition, and
pad and/or bottom of toes, crack- placed too high, and flooring roosting area. Cover flooring
ing and infection of the underside that is too hard or rough lead to with bedding to soften area.
of the feet, and may also involve Bumblefoot. Rocks, glass, and Remove animals from muddy
Staphylococcus infecting the foot. sharp objects in the birds’ area can or heavily soiled areas.
also cause this condition.
Dehydration Indicators include listlessness, Causes include the wrong type Closely monitor water con-
sunken appearance in the crop of watering equipment or lighting, sumption in poults until they
region, whitish crystals around poults incorrectly introduced to are drinking well. Monitor birds
the vent, and the crop found to be water source, unpalatable water if something new has been
empty or containing dry feed. from additive or contaminants, added to the water source.
and insufficient watering space or Provide sufficient water for the
supply. flock at all times.
Enlarged Hock This begins with a slight enlarge- Poor nutrition is the leading cause. Start with disease-free poults
Disease (see ment of the hock at 2 weeks of Most likely deficiency of vita- and feed them a nutritionally
also Perosis or age. The hock then returns to nor- min D3 and/or calcium coupled balanced diet throughout their
Mycoplasma) mal size at about 4 weeks, but the with Staphylococcus and/or lives. Avoid molds in feed. Note
swelling returns in severe form at Mycoplasma organisms. that tetracycline medications
14-16 weeks of age. The disease will interfere with calcium ab-
results in severe leg weakness, sorption and lead to enlarged
breast blisters and abscesses, hock disease.
sore feet, and/or sore legs.
Milkweed Poisoning is caused by whorled Poisoning occurs through the in- Eradicate the weed where
Poisoning milkweed, Asclepias galioides. gestion of the plant material, both turkeys are foraging or exclude
Symptoms are drowsiness, lack of fresh and dried. birds from areas where the
coordination, convulsions, exhaus- weed is present.
tion, coma, and death. The weed
is found in the southwestern to the
south-central U.S.
Perosis This condition includes a number Poor nutrition, lack of sunshine, Start poults off with nutrition-
of problems including the soften- genetic predisposition (inherited ally balanced diet and continue
ing of leg bones, enlarged hocks, condition), and being raised on it throughout the birds’ lives.
slipped tendons, twisted shanks, slippery floor surfaces will cause Allow the birds access to natu-
bowlegs, misshapen hock, sprad- birds to be prone to this condition. ral sunlight as soon as pos-
dle-leg, and lameness. sible. Avoid housing birds on
slippery flooring. Birds that are
permanently crippled should
be culled.
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Problem symptoms Likely Causes Prevention and treatment
Spraddle-leg This is Perosis in young poults. Inbreeding, poor nutrition of par- Supply an adequate nutritious
With this condition they lose con- ents, poor incubation practices, diet to parents and use proper
trol of one or both legs so that and poor quality or slick smooth incubation and brooding prac-
the limb or limbs are held out flooring will cause Spraddle-leg. tices. Prognosis is generally
sideways. poor. It may be best to cull
poults with this condition to
prevent their possible use as
breeders.
Turkeys are suddenly frightened at Birds can be startled by prowling Night lights near the nighttime
night and fly violently against walls animals, strange noises, or sud- roosting area can reduce inci-
Stampeding
and the roof of the shelter causing den bright lights, all of which could dences of this behavior. Take
damage to legs, wings, etc. They cause a stampede. protective measures to keep
can often pile up in the corners of predators away from birds.
houses and smother each other.
Diseases and Parasites of turkeys
Disease or Description and symptoms transmission Prevention and treatment
Parasite
Aspergillosis This is a fungal infection usually Inhalation of large numbers of There is no practical cure
(Brooder caused by Aspergillus fumigatus. Aspergillus spores from infected for infected birds. Cull them.
Pneumonia) It most commonly affects poults 5 hatchers, brooder houses, litter, or Aspergillus spores are very dif-
days to 8 weeks of age, although feed. Spores are present in almost ficult to eliminate and can infect
it can affect older birds. Indicators all litter materials and grow at room other avian species and hu-
of infection include heavy or rapid temperature (~70° F) or warmer. mans. Raising the humidity and
breathing and yellow or grey nodu- eliminating the source of the
lar lesions in the respiratory tract infection will limit the spread of
especially lungs and air sacs, oc- the disease. Spraying the litter
casionally in the mouth or trachea. lightly with an oil-based germi-
Lesions are common in the eyes cide will help. Control dust and
and can sometimes occur in the movement of spores. Replace
brain. litter if highly contaminated.
Do not use litters high in bark
content or ones that have pre-
viously been wet.
Avian Influenza AI is caused by a virus. There are Poor sanitation or farm biosecurity, Keep wild birds, especially
(AI) 256 different types of AI virus. It is and close contact with wild birds migratory waterfowl, away
found worldwide. Almost all birds (especially migratory waterfowl) from the flock. Implement ba-
are susceptible, especially turkeys. will increase the chances of expo- sic biosecurity measures on
One type, HPH5N1, can be es- sure to AI. Great amounts of virus the farm to reduce chances
pecially severe and under certain are excreted from gastrointestinal of transmission from other
circumstances can infect humans. (GI) and respiratory tracts and re- sources (such as other poul-
Mild forms produce listlessness, main viable for variable lengths of try farms or feed stores). A
respiratory involvement, diarrhea time depending on environmental vaccine from USDA may be
and low mortality in birds. Some conditions. Recovered birds can available for use (prior to flock
infected birds show no symptoms. excrete virus for several weeks. exposure to AI) during times of
Acute forms produce facial swelling, Transmission is by any means pandemic. Notify state disease
cyanosis, dehydration and respira- which carries respiratory or GI regulatory officials if AI is sus-
tory distress, lesions and small tract discharges. Infection occurs pected. Flocks confirmed with
hemorrhages throughout the body, through both oral and respiratory AI should be depopulated.
and high mortality rates. routes.
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How to Raise HeRitage tuRkeys on PastuRe
Disease or Description and symptoms transmission Prevention and treatment
Parasite
Avian A variety of transmissible benign The lymphoid form can infect tur- No effective prevention or treat-
Leucosis/ and malignant tumors of chick- keys. It is transmitted in two ways: ment is available. Eradicate
Sarcom Group ens caused by viruses of the (1) hen to progeny through the infected breeder flocks. Use
of Diseases Retroviridae family. A number of egg (small percentage), (2) bird proper cleanup, sanitation,
tumors are produced, some in lym- to bird by direct or indirect contact and biosecurity practices. The
phoid tissues throughout the body, especially at hatch time. Viruses causative agents are relatively
others in blood vessels or bone. in the droppings of newly hatched resistant to sunlight but sus-
These cause progressive weak- birds are highly infectious. Virus is ceptible to heat, drying, and
ness, loss of weight, dehydration, present in both saliva and dropping certain disinfectants.
at times enlarged abdomen or eye of older birds. Field cases usually
tumors. Greenish diarrhea is pres- occur after 14 weeks of age with
ent in terminal stages. Death occurs highest incidence around sexual
within weeks. Note that no symp- maturity.
toms or lesions appear in some
birds.
Blackhead or This disease, caused by a proto- Birds are infected with the proto- Ideally, separate turkey flocks
Histomoniasis zoan (Histomonas meleagridis), is zoan by directly ingesting cecal from chicken flocks and sepa-
characterized by increased thirst, worm eggs in the soil or indirectly rate young birds from older
decreased appetite, watery sulfur- ingesting the eggs through earth- birds. Use good sanitation
colored droppings, drowsiness, worms infected with the protozo- practices in the brooding area.
weakness, dry-ruffled feathers, ans. When eaten, the birds release Rotate range areas frequently.
dark cyanotic head, and lesions the protozoans by excreting them Feed containing a medication
in the liver and ceca. Mortality is in feces. The protozoans together specific to Blackhead can be
high, especially in poults less than with E.coli and other intestinal bac- used as a preventative or to
12 weeks of age. Histomonads are teria produce the disease. Turkeys, treat infected birds.
very stable inside cecal worm eggs chickens, peafowl, and several
that are ingested by earthworms. game bird species are susceptible
Earthworms can carry over the pro- to the disease.
tozoans to successive broods year
after year.
Blue Comb This infection of the gastrointestinal The disease is caused by the in- There is no effective treatment
or Turkey tract is caused by a highly conta- gestion of infected fecal material. for this disease. To prevent
Coronavirus gious Coronavirus specific to tur- Less than a pinhead amount will the disease from occurring,
keys. It infects turkeys of all ages. infect a bird. Within 72 hours this keep young birds warm and
Mortality decreases with age. A dis- bird can in turn excrete a large dry. Eradication occurs only by
ease of sudden onset, it will cause amount of virus. Virus survival in depopulating all poultry from
depression, low body temperature, environment is variable – days to the farm and strict clean-up
diarrhea, loss of appetite and body indefinitely if frozen. Virus pas- followed by decontamination
weight, dehydration, prostration, sage between birds or premises with disinfectant, then a 30-day
and death. In poults mortality can increase pathogenicity. vacancy. Some birds, notably
be 50-90%. This disease will often adults, may not show disease
stunt the growth of survivors. signs but almost every infected
bird remains a lifelong carrier
and shedder of the virus. The
disease can be prevented only
by strict biosecurity. Cull in-
fected birds.
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How to Raise HeRitage tuRkeys on PastuRe
Disease or Description and symptoms transmission Prevention and treatment
Parasite
Coccidiosis A protozoan disease often seen in This disease is caused by the Prevent transmission of
turkeys grown on range or on litter. protozoan parasites of the genus Coccidiosis by eliminating fecal
It usually infects immature turkeys Eimeria. Turkeys are susceptible material from infected birds.
before their immune system de- to 7 species, only 3 of which are Feces from infected birds can
velops. Usual symptoms include pathogenic. Coccidia of chickens be tracked in on crates, equip-
weakness, drooping wings, ruffled and other birds and animals do ment, footwear, clothes, pets,
feathers, head drawn back into not infect turkeys and vice versa. wild animals, etc. Prevent
shoulders, listlessness, and light Coccidial oocysts are shed in the build-up of oocytes in the en-
brown, mucoid, and often bloody feces of infected birds and must vironment by removing damp
diarrhea with a fetid odor. be ingested to produce disease. litter and preventing wet spots.
Oocysts are environmentally A vaccine is available and oth-
stable and are not killed by most er biological preventatives are
disinfectants. under development to combat
Coccidia. In severe cases, a
dietary coccidiostat (preventa-
tive) should be considered, at
least temporarily. Apple cider
vinegar can be used as a pro-
phylactic treatment (1-4 Tbsp/
gallon of water). Limited im-
munity to coccidia is built up if
birds are exposed to low doses
of the organism over time.
Erysipelas With this bacterial infection birds This condition is caused by ex- Maintain appropriate social
may exhibit listlessness, drooping posure of open wounds to the grouping within the flock to
posture, sulfur-colored droppings, bacterium Erysipelothrix insidiosa. avoid fighting among toms.
cyanotic (dark blue) head, nasal Erysipelas is soil-borne, persistent Vaccination is recommended
discharge or stuffiness, swelling of in the environment (esp. alkaline in areas where the disease
the snood, slight fever, and/or lame- soils), and resistant to many germi- is common. The disease can
ness. This disease primarily infects cides. The organism can become be treated with penicillin or
toms through wounds caused endemic on infected premises. The tetracycline. Use rubber gloves
by fighting. This disease can be organism can enter through bites when treating infected birds.
passed to other species including (esp. mosquitoes) or breaks in the Infected, vaccinated birds can
swine, sheep, and humans. skin or mouth of the bird. remain carriers and re-infect
pens or new premises.
Flukes Exposure to the fluke Collyriclum Birds kept near marshy areas Avoid using natural water
faba produces large, shiny cysts on can be exposed to intermediate sources as the primary water
the skin in the abdominal area of hosts (snails, dragonfly nymphs, supply for the flock. Remove
young turkeys. Other flukes (trema- tadpoles, frogs) and drink from birds from contact with interme-
todes) affect the intestinal tract natural water sources that may be diate hosts.
causing milky discharge from the contaminated with flukes.
cloaca or, in severe cases, enteritis.
Infected hens may lay eggs with
soft shells or no shells.
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How to Raise HeRitage tuRkeys on PastuRe
Disease or Description and symptoms transmission Prevention and treatment
Parasite
Fowl Cholera Fowl of all species (esp. turkeys, It is caused by the bacterium Control of the disease is
chickens, pheasants, and ducks) Pasteurella multocida which can achieved through eradication
are susceptible. The disease usu- survive in soil, litter, or decayed of infected birds, sanitation of
ally strikes birds older than 6 weeks. matter for several months. It is infected areas, and good flock
Symptoms range from sudden easily killed by disinfectants, biosecurity. Control of rodents
death to chronic localized infections drying, and direct sunlight. Wild and predators is essential to
of joints, nasal clefts, and/or brain. birds, predators, and domestic prevent future outbreaks. In
Recovered birds remain carriers. cats are suspected of harboring problem areas, vaccines can
The disease may start with sudden and spreading the disease, espe- and should be used. Sick birds
deaths within the flock, followed cially to turkeys on range. Disease should be culled. Recovered
within hours by birds with fever, spreads through infected feces, birds are carriers of the organ-
lethargy, increased water intake, body excretions, and contaminated ism and should therefore be
decreased feed consumption, cya- materials (feed, water, equipment, culled.
notic (dark blue) head and un-feath- etc.).
ered parts, pronounced hemorrhage
in various tissues, and increasing
mortality within the flock. The infec-
tion is evident and consolidated
in lungs upon diagnostic exam.
Chronic forms usually follow acute
outbreaks.
Fowl Pox There are two types of Fowl Pox. Infection by Fowl Pox virus is Vaccination should be used
“Dry Pox” shows nodular prolific through mosquitoes or other biting only on farms or in areas
skin lesions on un-feathered body insects, possibly by ingestion of where fowl pox is a recur-
surfaces at the bite sites of infected infected scabs, or through the dust ring problem although only a
insects. The lesions progress to in infected environments, which few methods of vaccination
thick scabs that are firmly attached. enters the eye, skin wounds or are effective for this disease.
“Wet Pox” presents itself with yel- respiratory epithelium. Mosquitoes Consult knowledgeable
low, canker-like lesions and swelling are infected when feeding on in- sources. Antibiotics on the raw
in mouth, throat, and respiratory fected birds and possibly remain lesions and in drinking water
tissues, which cause breathing dif- infective for life, even wintering will help to combat secondary
ficulties in the birds. over in poultry houses. infections.
Gapeworm or These round red worms live in the Gapeworm problems occur mostly Keep food and water off the
“Redworms” trachea (windpipe) causing open in young birds and those reared ground to decrease chances
mouth breathing (gaping), often ac- in range pens with gapeworm-in- of contamination from earth-
companied by grunting sounds from fested soils. Gapeworm infestation worms. Use of poultry anthel-
the bird. Redworms grow rapidly occurs when redworms, their eggs, mintics in the food or water can
and soon block the trachea caus- or earthworms which have eaten reduce incidence of the worms
ing air blockage and suffocation, gapeworm eggs are ingested in the flock. Tilling the soil in
especially in young birds. Birds may and shed in the turkey droppings. the pens after the growing sea-
stretch out their necks, cough, or Gapeworm eggs on the ground or son helps to destroy residual
shake their heads trying to remove in the litter embryonate within 8-14 infection.
the worms. Birds will not eat and days and become infective when
rapidly become weak. eaten by birds or earthworms. In
earthworms, gapeworm larvae
hatch and become encysted in
muscle tissues, where they can
remain infective for up to 4½ years
(in snails and slugs up to 1 year.)
After ingestion by turkeys, larvae
hatch in the intestine, migrate to
the lungs, and then move into the
trachea.
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How to Raise HeRitage tuRkeys on PastuRe
Disease or Description and symptoms transmission Prevention and treatment
Parasite
Hexamitiasis Infected poults are chilled, ner- Infection is caused by the flagel- Establish an all-in, all-out
vous, chirp often, huddle, become lated protozoan Hexamita melea- brooding and growing program.
listless with ruffled feathers, and gridis which is found worldwide Avoid young poults coming into
finally become convulsive and and is endemic in some areas. The contact with older or free-flying
comatose. Death typically follows parasite also infects ducks, quail, birds that may be carriers of
coma. Watery, foamy, fetid diar- pheasants, and pigeons. Chickens the organism. Put feeders and
rhea develops early with infection, can carry the organism but are not waterers on wire platforms.
probably causing electrolyte loss affected and can serve as carriers Clean and disinfect between
and hypoglycemia. Less affected and sources of the parasite. The flocks. Regularly clean and
poults consume some feed but lose organism is passed from bird to sanitize waterers. Medicating
weight, and many survivors become bird and by ingestion of droppings feed with histomonastats is
unthrifty and stunted. Recovered contaminating feed or water. especially important for turkeys
birds remain carriers. The greatest on range. Depopulate infected
mortality occurs in poults 3-8 weeks flocks.
of age. Resistance develops by 10-
12 weeks. This disease is rare in
adult turkeys. Hexamitiasis can be
confused with Coronaviral enteritis.
Leucocytozoon This is a blood protozoan disease Blackflies and midges become Because the biting flies breed
Infection that affects blood and tissue cells of infected with Leucocytozoon smithi in running water, the disease is
internal organs. Domestic turkeys which is host specific for turkeys. more common around streams.
show loss of appetites, vigor, exces- Within a few hours of taking blood Blood screening of the flock
sive thirst, depression, sleepiness, from an infected turkey, the para- can identify carriers of the par-
moist tracheal sounds, coughing, site within the blackfly or midge asite. Removal of carriers can
and sometimes uncoordination. develops to a stage which allows break the cycle by eliminating
Sudden death occurs in acute transmission through the saliva of the source of the parasite.
cases. Young turkeys less than the biting insect. Once in the tur-
a few months old during blackfly key, the parasite develops and ma-
season are the most often infected tures in the blood and tissue cells
victims of the protozoa. The dis- and causes the disease signs and
ease is often rapid and fatal. Hens internal lesions. L. smithi remains
have decreased egg production, infective within the biting insect
egg weight, poor hatchability, and for days after its last blood meal.
high poult mortality. Wild turkeys, Recovered birds may carry infec-
especially the mature birds, show tive L.Smithi in their blood for more
few signs. than a year and can infect biting
insects in the next season.
Lice (Fowl Approximately 40 species of fowl Only chewing lice, not sucking lice, Common methods of intro-
Lice) lice exist. Many can cross-infect infect fowl. Turkeys, unless infect- ducing lice to a premise are
different species of fowl if the birds ed from other fowl, become in- by infested birds, equipment,
are in close contact. More than one fected with one of 3 species of fowl or materials such as hauling
species of lice can co-exist on the lice: a large louse, a slender louse, crates, trucks, feed bags, etc.
same birds. Treatment and control, and chicken-type lice. The slender Prevent contact with infested
however, are the same for all fowl type is the most common in wild wild or domestic fowl, including
lice. Lice are not highly pathogenic turkeys. Lousiness is diagnosed those acquired for breeding or
to mature birds but heavily infested by finding the straw-colored lice replacements. Inspect birds
poults may die. Infestations may on the skin or feathers. Eggs are and housing at least twice per
contribute to infertility in mature attached as white clusters at the month. Lice can be killed by
turkeys. Lice feed on dry skin scales base of feathers and they hatch using an insecticide labeled
and feather products. Evidence indi- in 4-7 days. Lice spend entire for treatment of lice. Few treat-
cates that lice irritate nerve endings life cycles (3 weeks) on the host ments kills lice eggs. Several
and interfere with sleep, rest, and producing as many as 120,000 treatments on the birds and
nutrition. Lice infestations frequently offspring in their lifespan (several in their housing may be nec-
accompany symptoms of poor months). They remain alive for essary to break the cycle of
health, infectious disease, malnutri- only 5-6 days away from the host. infestation.
tion, and poor sanitation. Turkeys in close confinement or in
unsanitary conditions are suscep-
tible to infestations.
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How to Raise HeRitage tuRkeys on PastuRe
Disease or Description and symptoms transmission Prevention and treatment
Parasite
Marek’s Marek’s Disease is a very prevalent Transmission of the virus between Do not confuse Marek’s
Disease worldwide herpes virus. It is an in- chickens and turkeys and from diease with HVT (Herpes Virus
duced tumor disease of all types of turkey to turkey has been proven. Turkey), a non-disease produc-
chickens. The virus produces dis- The virus is readily transmitted ing avian herpes virus present
ease in turkeys, quail, and pheas- through epithelial cells (dander) in all domestic turkeys and
ants. Characteristics of Marek’s shed from skin as feathers grow found in wild turkeys. Currently
Disease in turkeys are similar to but out. These cells contain infectious it is present in practically all
more subdued than in chickens and virus, which contaminates the envi- domestic chickens because
natural outbreaks are rare. Tumors ronment and is carried by aerosol of its earlier widespread use
in chickens are found in nerves, or tracked away to be taken in as a vaccine against Marek’s
organs, muscles, and skin tissues. through feed and water. Dander Disease in chickens. Since
Tumors cause malfunctions wher- remains infectious for at least sev- no tumors or other disease is
ever they occur. Symptoms include eral months and for years when produced by HVT and virulent
cloudy eyes, blindness, lameness, frozen. Infected chickens shed the Marek’s Disease in turkeys is
lack of coordination, unthriftiness, virus indefinitely. rare, practical prevention and
and weak, labored breathing. treatment measures have not
Paralysis, large feather follicles, and been developed for either virus
tumors in abdominal organs also in turkeys.
occur.
Mites The mites most important in turkeys Wild birds (including their free Frequent inspection of the
are: (1) Chicken or Red mite, (2) feathers), un-sanitized equip- birds is key to mite control.
Northern Fowl mite, (3) Chiggers, ment or materials, and infested Treatment of infected birds and
(4) Feather mite, (5) Scaly-leg mite, replacement turkeys are the most their housing with approved
(6) Air Sac mite. Mites multiply very common ways mites are carried insecticides for mites can con-
quickly into overwhelming numbers to the un-infested hosts. Clothing trol or eliminate mite infesta-
on the host and survive months of visitors from infested areas tion. The best control for mites
in the environment. The Northern can carry mites. Some mites can is to treat their hiding places,
Fowl mite is often found in range survive away from the host for 3-4 such as cracks and crevices in
turkeys and is the most common weeks and remain dormant for 4-5 turkey housing.
permanent parasite of poultry in the months. Thus re-infestation occurs
US. It is easily found on infested unless thorough house cleaning
birds by day or night. Chicken mites and disinfection is done, especially
are more easily found on birds at in cracks and crevices.
night. Both Chicken and Northern
Fowl mites are blood feeders and
heavy infestations cause anemia,
pale comb and wattle, weakness,
decreased feed consumption, poor
resistance to disease, and some-
times poult deaths. Chicken mites,
Northern Fowl mites, and Chiggers
cause skin blemishes reducing
health and marketability of the tur-
key carcass. The other mites cause
problems as indicated by their
names.
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How to Raise HeRitage tuRkeys on PastuRe
Disease or Description and symptoms transmission Prevention and treatment
Parasite
Mycosis Fungi In turkeys three different fungi Prolonged or improper antibi- Prevent moldy feed and lit-
cause three sporadically seen dis- otic treatment most often initi- ter. It is possible to use mold
eases. (1) Candidiasis or “Thrush”, ates and leads to Candidiasis. inhibitors in feed and water.
is caused by Candida, which is part Immunosuppression increases Propionic acid in feed and
of the normal intestinal microflora susceptibility as do overcrowded, bleach in the water is are ex-
of healthy humans, animals and damp conditions, ingestion of amples of treatments that work
birds. When certain microflora are moldy litter or feed (especially well. Remove wet or caked lit-
reduced due to antibiotic use, dehy- corn), malnutrition, and unsanitary ter from housing. Mycrosporum
dration, or poor hygiene, Candida water troughs. Mycrosporum can and Dactylaria are transmis-
increases. Young birds are most exist in contaminated soil and be sible to humans mainly through
susceptible. Symptoms include poor transmitted by birds with skin infec- breaks in the skin. Use protec-
growth, listlessness, and whitish le- tions. Contaminated wood chips tive clothing (gloves, mask,
sions and ulcers of the lining of the and sawdust litter or egg incuba- etc.) and remove contaminated
mouth, esophagus and, especially, tors are the preferred environment litter. Decontaminate housing
the crop. This lining peels easily. for Dactylaria. and incubators with fungicides.
Endotoxins produced by the fungi Individual lesions may respond
may cause further damage. (2) to Miconazol ointment treat-
Mycrosporum causes skin lesions ment. A dietary fungicide is
called favus in birds and ringworm available for treating birds with
in humans and other animals. This crop mycosis.
disease is reported rarely in tur-
keys. Infected birds appear healthy
other than the skin damage, which
appears as white scaly or crusty
lesions on the skin of the head and
neck. There can also be some loss
of feathers around the lesions. (3)
Dactylaria is a fungi which migrates
to the brain where it multiplies,
causing imbalance, tremors, twisting
of the neck, paralysis, and death.
This is a rare disease which affects
and kills a moderately large number
of birds within infected flocks.
Newcastle This is a very contagious respira- Large amounts of Newcastle Humans and their equipment
Disease tory virus affecting all bird species. Disease virus are shed by infected most often mechanically trans-
Human eye infections associated birds in their droppings and in fer infective material. Very
with this avian disease can oc- droplets from the respiratory tract, small amounts of manure carry
cur. Different strains of the virus especially during the viremic (virus large amounts of virus. Virus
cause varied disease response in blood) stage (5-7 days). Air-born remains alive in litter for up to 2
and there are variations within the virus (droplets or dust particles) months and in dead carcasses
strains causing either mild, moder- can then be directly inhaled or for up to 12 months. Virus
ate, or severe disease response. ingested by other hosts and can is destroyed by heat, direct
Age (younger birds are most sus- contaminate litter or other sur- sunlight, disinfectants, and fu-
ceptible), dose, route of infection, faces including foot ware, clothing, migants. Under certain circum-
species of bird, and environmental equipment, wild birds, etc. The stances birds without signs of
conditions influence reactions. The virus can then be transmitted to Newcastle Disease can shed
disease occurs less often and is other sites. Susceptible birds can the virus. Vaccines are avail-
milder in turkeys than in chickens. become infected with the strains of able for use in turkeys.
Typically the virus infects the respi- virus used in live virus vaccines if
ratory system (gasping, etc.), brain exposed to newly vaccinated birds.
(central nervous system signs), or
both. Sudden onset of the disease
results in a drop in feed and water
consumption, egg production, and
facial swelling in the birds. There is
high mortality in young birds.
43
How to Raise HeRitage tuRkeys on PastuRe
Disease or Description and symptoms transmission Prevention and treatment
Parasite
Omphalitis Omphalitis is a bacterial infection of Poor incubation and hatchery There is no treatment for the
(Navel the navel in newly hatched poults. sanitation is the primary cause of condition. Most poults will die
Infection) The abdomen becomes enlarged this infection. Excessive incubation quickly and those that survive
on infected poults. The navel will humidity or chilling at hatch time do not need treatment. Poor
remain unhealed, the poult will feel increases the problem. Poor egg growing or stunted poults
“flabby”. There will also be a putrid shell quality allows fecal bacteria should be culled. Following
odor from the poult. Death can be- on the shell or from the environ- proper sanitation and biosecu-
gin within 24 hours of hatching and ment to infect the eggs and poults rity methods is the most effec-
mortality rates tend to be high. before, during, and after hatching. tive defense against this type
Eggs which explode during incuba- of infection.
tion spread infective bacteria and
viruses to other eggs and their
environment.
Ornithosis Infection with Chlamydia psittaci, a Large amounts of organism are No vaccine is available. Good
(Chlamydiosis, virus-like organism found worldwide, shed in the respiratory exudates biosecurity practices are es-
Psittacosis) produces both acute and chronic re- and droppings of infected birds. pecially important, and in par-
spiratory and systemic reactions in Organisms are then ingested and ticular keeping wild birds from
almost all species of birds. Humans inhaled as aerosols of respiratory close contact with domestic
can be infected. Turkeys, especially exudate or manure dust. Infected birds. Recovered birds remain
males and young birds, are most material can contaminate other ar- carriers and may re-infect
often infected from wild birds. They eas in many ways. Wild bird nests replacement birds so cull-
will show depression, loss of ap- can become sources of the organ- ing infected birds is prudent.
petite, respiratory discharges, loose ism, especially in colony-nesting Obtain a laboratory diagnosis if
yellow-green droppings, and have species. Turkeys can continue to Chlamydiosis is suspected.
abdominal pain. Some infections, shed the organism for more than
especially in older birds, show few 60 days. Stress may provoke a
signs until the birds are stressed. recurrence in carrier birds. The
Severe cases exhibit fever, exu- organism has been found in eggs
dates in the respiratory system and from infected hens. Signs of dis-
throughout the abdominal cavity, ease from mild strains may not be
swollen spleen and liver, and in- noticeable until 2-8 weeks after
creased mortality. Infected humans exposure. Human infection occurs
show fever (104°F +), headache, in turkey growers, haulers, and
and pneumonia-like symptoms. those handling the internal organs
of diseased birds.
Paratyphoid or The disease, caused by bacteria of Transmission of the disease is Immediately isolate or cull in-
Salmonellosis the genus Salmonella, generally through eggs, on eggs via fecal fected birds. Antibiotics may be
affects young birds but older birds material, exposure to infected of some use to help with sec-
may be affected. The vents of new- birds, and cross contamination due ondary infections. All salmonel-
born poults may become pasted to poor biosecurity practices. Note la infections must be reported
up with a sticky white diarrhea that that humans, turkeys, rodents, to state regulatory agencies.
hardens on the vent, prevents the pets, wild birds, etc. can all con-
bird from defecating, and causes tract and carry the disease.
death. Other symptoms in poults in-
clude loss of appetite, diarrhea, and
unabsorbed or putrid yolk sacs.
Mortality can be high in young poults.
Older infected birds may have occa-
sional enteritis and diarrhea, if there
are any symptoms at all.
Pseudomonas The bacterium Pseudomonas ae- Pseudomonas is a water-loving Immediately isolate or cull in-
Infection ruginosa creates this virulent infec- bacterium and may be passed fected birds. Medical treatment
tion. It can have a high mortality through contaminated water sourc- may have some effect, but this
rate in young or immunosuppressed es or exposure to infected birds. It bacterium is highly resistant to
birds. Healthy adult birds are not as invades fertile eggs causing death most antibiotics. It is crucial to
likely to contract infection. Symp- of embryos and newly hatched identify the source of contami-
toms include lameness; lack of co- poults. nation to prevent further infec-
ordination; swelling of head, wattles, tion. Running the tap before
sinuses, hock joints or foot pads; filling waterers may reduce the
diarrhea; and cloudy, infected eyes. chances of infection.
44