The History of Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV) Outbreaks

Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV), a highly contagious avian viral disease, was first documented in 1931 in North Dakota, USA, as an acute respiratory illness in chickens. Researchers at the time observed puzzling respiratory symptoms in broiler chicks, which were later attributed to a novel respiratory virus.

In the early 1930s, the disease was officially identified in the United States, with notable contributions from researchers like Schalk and Hawn in describing its initial clinical signs. By 1936, the viral agent was successfully isolated and named Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV). Initially, IBV was believed to primarily affect the upper respiratory tract. However, subsequent research revealed that the virus could also impact the kidneys and even the reproductive system of poultry. These discoveries underscored the long-term implications of the disease for the poultry industry, especially concerning egg production and overall flock performance.

Pathological studies conducted in the 1940s and 1950s demonstrated that IBV predominantly caused inflammation of the trachea and lungs. Furthermore, early-life infections were found to lead to permanent damage to the reproductive tract in adult hens. Over time, the significant genetic diversity of IBV became apparent, with various serotypes and strains emerging globally. In later decades, new strains were identified that caused additional symptoms beyond respiratory issues, including kidney problems and a decline in egg output. This antigenic variability of the virus has posed a substantial challenge to effective disease control and vaccination efforts, as immunity developed against one strain may not offer adequate protection against others.

Today, Avian Infectious Bronchitis is recognized as one of the most critical viral diseases in the global poultry industry, leading to considerable economic losses. Extensive research continues to focus on identifying novel strains, developing rapid diagnostic methods, and producing effective vaccines capable of providing broad protection against a wide range of viral variants. Understanding the history of this disease reveals how a relatively unknown pathogen initially evolved into a global threat to the health and economic viability of the poultry sector.

What is Avian Infectious Bronchitis?

Infectious Bronchitis (IB) is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects the respiratory system of birds, particularly chickens. The causative agent is the Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV), which is classified as an avian gamma coronavirus. Besides domestic chickens, IBV can also infect pheasants and peafowl.

IBV is an enveloped, single-stranded RNA coronavirus characterized by its distinctive spike-like projections on its surface. Variations in the virus’s Spike protein have led to the emergence of numerous variants worldwide. These variants differ in disease severity; some are mild, while others can be highly lethal and spread in specific geographical regions or globally.

In microbiology and virology, a variant describes a genetically distinct subtype of a microorganism that differs from the original sample, but not enough to be classified as a separate strain.
Due to its high infectivity, Avian Infectious Bronchitis spreads rapidly through flocks. If left uncontrolled, it can lead to respiratory distress, stunted growth, a drop in egg production, and even mortality in birds. IBV is easily transmitted through the air, respiratory secretions, contaminated feed, and by infected equipment or people. . The severity of the disease varies depending on the viral strain, the bird’s age, and environmental conditions. In severe cases, it can also affect the kidneys and reproductive tract. Therefore, a thorough understanding of Avian Infectious Bronchitis is crucial as it poses a significant threat to the health and productivity of the poultry industry.
You might be wondering; can avian bronchitis be transmitted to humans? The answer is yes, humans can act as carriers of the IBV virus. For this reason, it’s advisable for workers in affected poultry houses to avoid moving between different houses during quarantine. However, it’s crucial to understand that being a carrier does not equate to contracting the disease. Humans typically do not develop Avian Infectious Bronchitis. In the rare instances where exposure might lead to any symptoms, they are usually mild. Therefore, there’s no major cause for concern regarding human health in this context.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of Avian Infectious Bronchitis

The clinical signs of Infectious Bronchitis (IB) in poultry can vary from very mild to severe, depending on the bird’s age, immune status, viral strain, and husbandry conditions. However, certain consistent patterns are observed in most cases.

Initially, the upper respiratory tract is affected. Sick birds often present with coughing, sneezing, tracheal rales (crackling sounds during breathing), and nasal discharge. In chicks, these symptoms typically persist for 10 to 14 days. An accumulation of exudate in the trachea, known as a tracheal plug, is clearly visible, especially in the early days of infection.

Alongside respiratory symptoms, ocular and sinus complications can also appear. Birds may develop conjunctivitis, watery eyes, swelling around the eyes, and even facial swelling, particularly when secondary bacterial infections involve the sinuses.

With certain specific viral strains, especially nephropathogenic strains, the infection extends to the kidneys. In such cases, symptoms like severe lethargy, increased water consumption, excretion of thin and watery droppings, and high mortality rates are observed in chicks. Post-mortem examination may reveal swollen, pale, and urate-laden kidneys, indicative of kidney failure.

Furthermore, general signs such as huddling, reduced appetite, ruffled feathers, poor flock uniformity, and stunted growth are common. These issues are often exacerbated under stressful conditions or in farms with poor ventilation and high stocking density.

In laying hens, if the virus infects birds at a pre-laying age, it can cause permanent damage to the reproductive tract, leading to a persistent drop in egg production or shell deformities. Even if birds outwardly recover, the long-term impact on productive performance remains.

Finally, it’s important to note that the severity of clinical signs does not always correlate with the extent of economic damage. Even in cases where visible symptoms are mild, the virus’s effects on growth performance, egg production, and feed conversion ratio (FCR) can be significant. Therefore, early diagnosis and timely control are essential to prevent hidden and irreversible complications.

Avian Infectious Bronchitis Disease Course: How Long Will the Flock Be Affected?

Avian Infectious Bronchitis (IB) is a highly contagious viral disease. The duration of its impact on a flock and the severity of symptoms are influenced by several factors, including the viral strain, the bird’s age, its immune status, and the presence of secondary infections. Understanding the disease progression and its contagious period is crucial for proper management and preventing economic losses.

Onset and Duration of Clinical Signs in Chickens:
After the Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV) enters a flock, the incubation period is typically short, lasting between 18 to 36 hours. Consequently, clinical signs such as respiratory rales, sneezing, and reduced appetite may appear within one to two days post-infection and spread rapidly throughout the flock.

How Long Do Chickens Stay Sick with IB?

Generally, the period of observable clinical signs for avian bronchitis lasts between 7 to 14 days. In young chicks, these symptoms usually persist for 5 to 10 days. In mild cases, recovery might occur after about a week. However, with more virulent strains or under poor management conditions and secondary infections (like Mycoplasma, E. coli, and Avibacterium), this period can extend to two weeks or even longer. In some instances, full recovery may take up to 6 weeks.
Infectious Period and Virus Shedding in Chickens:

IBV-infected flocks shed the virus through respiratory secretions and feces. The contagious period usually begins approximately 2 to 3 days post-infection and can continue for up to 10 days after the apparent resolution of respiratory symptoms. This means seemingly recovered birds can still act as carriers and transmit the virus to other flocks. Virus shedding can sometimes persist for 6 to 8 weeks.

Summary of the Avian Infectious Bronchitis Disease Course:

Incubation Period: 18 to 36 hours
Clinical Signs Visible: 7 to 14 days
Recovery (in most cases): 2 to 3 weeks

Long-Term Effects on Growth and Production:
You might be wondering if the disease only lasts a few days, or if its effects linger. While acute respiratory symptoms typically subside within one to two weeks, the impact of Infectious Bronchitis can be long-lasting and sometimes irreversible.

In broiler chickens, early-age infection can lead to permanent reductions in respiratory capacity and stunted growth. With nephropathogenic strains, kidney damage can also affect the bird’s overall performance until the end of the production cycle.

In laying hens, IB infection can result in reduced egg shell quality, a significant drop in egg production, and even permanent reproductive tract dysfunction. These lingering effects can persist throughout the entire laying period.
Therefore, early management and control of Avian Infectious Bronchitis are critically important for maintaining flock health and ensuring long-term economic productivity.

Symptoms of Infectious Bronchitis in Laying Hens: Reduced Egg Production, Wrinkled Shells, and Other Consequences

Infectious Bronchitis (IB) is a widespread and significant viral disease in laying hens, severely impacting flock productivity. The disease often begins with respiratory symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, rales (crackling sounds in the lungs), and nasal and ocular discharge. As the disease progresses, general signs like lethargy, reduced appetite, and ruffled feathers are also observed in affected birds.
In laying hens, one of the most prominent signs is a sudden drop in egg production, sometimes falling by as much as 70%. Eggs laid during the disease period often exhibit very poor quality. Common issues include misshapen, thin, or soft shells, wrinkling, roughness, paleness, smaller than normal size, and watery albumen (egg white). These changes can persist for several weeks after respiratory symptoms subside, and a full return to normal conditions typically takes 4 to 8 weeks.
Another significant consequence of the disease is flock mortality. Under normal circumstances, IB-related mortality rates are around 5%. However, if accompanied by secondary bacterial infections (such as E. coli), this figure can surge to as high as 60%.

If birds are infected at a young age, permanent damage to the oviduct (egg-laying canal) can occur. This damage prevents the hen from laying eggs naturally in the future, even after reaching full maturity, a phenomenon sometimes referred to as “false layer syndrome.”
In summary, Infectious Bronchitis isn’t just a respiratory illness; it’s a serious threat to egg production yield, product quality, and the long-term health of the flock.

Key Consequences of Infectious Bronchitis in Laying Hens:

Severe drop in egg production (up to 70% reduction)
Significant decline in egg quality: thin, soft, wrinkled, or rough shells; pale and smaller eggs; watery egg whites
Respiratory symptoms: sneezing, rales, coughing, nasal and ocular discharge
General signs: lethargy, reduced appetite, ruffled feathers
Mortality: typically, 5% (up to 60% with secondary infections)
Permanent damage to the oviduct in young birds (leading to “false layers”)

Symptoms of Infectious Bronchitis in Broiler Chickens: Your Flock's Number One Enemy

Infectious Bronchitis (IB) in broiler chickens often appears as an acute respiratory disease that can spread rapidly through the flock. While it primarily affects the upper respiratory tract, certain viral strains can impact the kidneys and even the overall growth of the bird. Since broilers are raised for rapid growth and weight gain, any respiratory distress or general weakness can directly affect the flock’s economic performance.

Young birds infected with IB often appear depressed and huddle together near heat sources. Early signs typically include sneezing, coughing, tracheal rales (crackling sounds), and gasping. Chickens usually seem restless and breathe with open mouths, especially in conditions with poor ventilation. Watery nasal discharge and matted feathers around the eyes and beak are also common. In the poultry house, the collective sound of birds breathing can be distinctly heard.

In many cases, a noticeable reduction in feed intake and stunted growth are observed. Birds become lethargic and show little desire to move or eat. This can lead to a significant increase in mortality rates, particularly during the early days of rearing. Poor flock uniformity is another common consequence of IB in broilers, with some birds growing well while others lag behind.

Certain specific viral strains can also cause kidney damage, characterized by symptoms such as polydipsia (excessive water drinking), polyuria (excessive urination), and wet feathers around the vent. In such instances, the kidneys may appear swollen and pale, and mortality rates increase.
The severity of symptoms in broilers can vary depending on age, viral strain, and rearing conditions. In severe cases and without proper care, the mortality rate can increase rapidly.
Key Symptoms of Infectious Bronchitis in Broiler Chicks:

Respiratory symptoms: Sneezing, coughing, rales, open-mouth breathing
Nasal discharge and matting around the eyes
Reduced appetite and weight gain
Lethargy and decreased mobility
Poor flock uniformity in weight and growth
Kidney damage (with certain strains): Polydipsia, polyuria, wet feathers around the vent, diarrhea
Increased mortality, especially under poor management or with secondary infections

Article: Diagnosing Poultry Diseases Based on Droppings

The Secret to Infectious Bronchitis Transmission in Poultry: Fomites, Aerosols, and Beyond

Infectious Bronchitis (IB) is a highly contagious viral disease in poultry, caused by a virus belonging to the Coronaviridae family. This virus spreads rapidly through a flock via various routes, leading to severe economic losses if not controlled effectively.
Primary Transmission Routes of Avian Infectious Bronchitis:

Direct Contact Between Birds: Infected birds transmit the virus to healthy ones through direct contact, including pecking, physical interaction, or sharing water and feed sources. Oral, nasal, and ocular secretions from infected birds contain the virus and are primary sources of flock contamination.
Airborne Transmission (Aerosols): Aerosols are microscopic particles suspended in the air, generated when infected birds sneeze or cough. The virus can remain airborne and be inhaled by healthy birds, infecting their respiratory tracts. This type of transmission is particularly prevalent in poultry houses with poor ventilation and high stocking densities.

Indirect Transmission via Fomites: A fomite is any inanimate object contaminated with the virus. Items like drinkers, feeders, cages, workers’ clothing and shoes, equipment, and vehicles can carry the virus for several days. Due to the virus’s relative resistance on surfaces, improper disinfection of equipment can lead to rapid disease spread.
Virus Spread Within the Bird’s Body: After infection, the virus initially replicates in the respiratory and digestive tracts. It then enters the bloodstream, disseminating to other organs, including the gonads, kidneys, and even the ovaries. This characteristic leads to secondary symptoms affecting various organs, such as reduced egg production or kidney damage.
Transmission from the External Environment or Neighboring Flocks: Migratory birds, air currents, wind, dust, and the movement of people or vehicles between poultry farms are other factors contributing to the spread of the disease.

Control and Treatment of Infectious Bronchitis in Chickens and Poultry

When signs of Infectious Bronchitis (IB) appear in a portion of a poultry flock, immediate and combined actions are crucial for providing supportive care to sick birds and preventing the virus from spreading to other areas of the house or other houses.

Since IB is a viral disease, there’s no specific cure. The primary goals of treatment are to alleviate symptoms, boost the birds’ immune system, and prevent secondary bacterial infections, allowing the birds’ own bodies to fight off the virus.

Supportive treatment should begin immediately upon observing cases. It’s recommended to increase the house temperature by approximately 2 to 3 degrees Celsius (about 3.6 to 5.4 degrees Fahrenheit) to ease the birds’ breathing. Adding vitamin supplements (such as A, C, and E) and electrolyte solutions to drinking water also helps strengthen the birds’ overall health and combat stress from the disease.

In many instances, IB is complicated by secondary bacterial infections, which worsen symptoms and increase mortality. In such situations, a veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics for 3 to 5 days to prevent these secondary infections. It’s important to remember that antibiotics are only effective against bacterial agents, not the virus itself.

Given that the virus is shed through respiratory secretions and feces, the poultry house quickly becomes contaminated. Therefore, strict and continuous biosecurity measures are vital. Daily localized disinfection in high-risk areas should be performed meticulously and regularly to prevent virus accumulation and spread. Using disinfectants effective against viruses, such as phenolic compounds, quaternary ammonium compounds, or peroxides, is recommended. Additionally, ventilation should be balanced, continuous, and without creating strong drafts, to ensure adequate oxygen supply and prevent the airborne spread of contaminated particles.

Regarding the common question, “Can the progression of the disease within a house be prevented?” It’s important to note that since IB has an incubation period of 18 to 36 hours, observing the first symptoms usually means the virus has already spread throughout a significant portion of the flock. Therefore, completely containing the disease within the same house will be very challenging. However, strict quarantine measures and rigorous hygienic protocols can prevent its transmission to other houses.

To achieve this, personnel movement should be managed to flow from healthy houses to affected houses, not the other way around. Using separate clothing, footwear, and tools for each house is mandatory. If equipment must be shared, it must be thoroughly disinfected after each use.
In addition to environmental measures, certain oral disinfectants or viral load-reducing supplements, as advised by a veterinarian, can be added to drinking water to help better control the disease. However, it’s crucial to be aware that even after symptoms subside, the virus can persist in the bird’s body for up to 15 to 20 weeks. For this reason, continuous hygiene practices and preventing the mixing of different flocks are extremely important.

To prevent disease transmission to other poultry units, sick or suspected flocks should be kept in quarantine for at least 3 to 6 weeks. Considering the prolonged period of virus shedding, extra caution in this regard is necessary.
Finally, one of the most critical long-term actions is to review and adjust the flock vaccination program. In houses where no symptoms have yet been observed, the correct application of live and inactivated vaccines, adhering strictly to timing and vaccination conditions, can prevent disease occurrence or reduce its severity. Given the antigenic diversity of IBV strains, selecting the appropriate vaccine and consulting with a veterinarian are of particular importance. For laying and breeder hens, revaccination or flock movement is recommended at least 3 to 4 weeks (21 to 28 days) after the last observed case of the disease to ensure the virus is no longer actively circulating in the flock.

Choosing the Best Medication and Antibiotics for Avian Infectious Bronchitis

As previously mentioned, Infectious Bronchitis (IB) is a viral disease, meaning antibiotics have no direct effect on the virus itself. The role of antibiotics in treating IB is solely to control secondary bacterial infections. These opportunistic infections capitalize on a weakened immune system and damaged respiratory tracts caused by the virus, thus taking hold in the bird’s body.
The selection of the “best” antibiotic depends on various factors and must be done in consultation with and prescribed by a qualified poultry veterinarian. Self-medication and improper antibiotic use will not only be ineffective but can also lead to antibiotic resistance and irreversible consequences.
Factors Influencing the Choice of the Right Antibiotic:

Identification of Secondary Bacterial Infection Type: Bacteria such as Escherichia coli (E. coli), Mycoplasma gallisepticum (responsible for Chronic Respiratory Disease – CRD), Mycoplasma synoviae, and Avibacterium paragallinarum (causing Infectious Coryza) are among the most common agents of secondary bacterial infections in poultry affected by IB. The best approach to antibiotic selection involves taking samples from sick birds (e.g., from the trachea, lungs, or air sacs) for microbial culture and an antibiogram. This test identifies which bacteria are causing the secondary infection and which antibiotics are most effective against them (i.e., drug sensitivity).
History of Antibiotic Use in the Flock/Region: Having information about antibiotics previously used in your flock or nearby farms can help the veterinarian select a more effective treatment. Frequent use of a specific antibiotic can lead to the development of resistance in local bacterial populations.
Age and Clinical Status of Birds: Younger chicks or birds with more severe symptoms may require antibiotics with faster and stronger efficacy. The overall kidney health of the birds is also important, as some antibiotics may be contraindicated in birds with kidney problems.
Drug Formulation and Administration Method: Antibiotics can be administered dissolved in drinking water, mixed in feed, or by injection. The chosen method depends on the disease severity, the number of affected birds, and the veterinarian’s recommendations. The most common and practical method for large flocks is using water-soluble medications, provided the birds are consuming enough water.
Withdrawal Period: It’s crucial that antibiotics are completely cleared from the birds’ bodies before slaughter for human consumption. Every antibiotic has a specific withdrawal period that must be strictly observed to prevent drug residues in poultry products.

Article: Guide to Starting a Poultry Farm

Preventing Avian Infectious Bronchitis in Poultry

Avian Infectious Bronchitis (IB) poses a significant threat to flock health and poultry farm productivity. A crucial point about this disease is that there’s no direct or effective cure for it. Therefore, prevention is not just an option, but a management necessity. Successful IB prevention focuses on stopping the disease from occurring in the first place, thereby averting widespread losses.

Preventing this disease requires a multi-layered approach. Vaccination alone isn’t sufficient, nor can disinfection or environmental control alone provide complete protection. It’s the consistent and proper combination of several complementary measures that can create effective immunity against the Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV). From selecting the right vaccine to adhering to biosecurity principles and preventing the entry of pathogens into the flock, each element plays a vital role.

Unlike many poultry diseases that can be relatively managed with medication, late action against IB equates to inevitable losses. Consequently, poultry farms that proactively develop and implement a prevention program can ensure flock health while preventing production drops, mortality, and indirect costs.

Key Strategies for Preventing Avian Infectious Bronchitis in Poultry :

Strict and thorough implementation of Biosecurity principles: This includes controlling access to the farm, maintaining hygiene, and disinfecting equipment.
Targeted and principled vaccination: A well-planned vaccination program is essential, considering the specific IBV strains prevalent in the region.
Quarantine for newly introduced flocks: Isolate new birds to prevent them from introducing diseases to the existing flock.
Regular and effective disinfection of poultry houses, equipment, and vehicles.
Implementation of an “All-in, All-out” system between each rearing cycle to break disease cycles.
Control of ventilation, temperature, and humidity to reduce stress and enhance respiratory immunity.
Balanced nutrition coupled with immune system support for poultry, especially during critical periods.
Proper manure management and pest control to prevent the spread of contamination.
Continuous monitoring of flock health and ongoing consultation with a specialized poultry veterinarian.

Biosecurity: The First Line of Defense in Poultry Farming

Biosecurity protocols should be considered the primary barrier against the entry of viruses like Infectious Bronchitis (IBV) into a poultry flock. These seemingly simple measures, in practice, make the crucial difference between a healthy and a contaminated farm. Limiting the entry of unauthorized personnel, equipment, or vehicles into poultry houses is essential. Only authorized individuals, wearing dedicated protective clothing and footwear, should be permitted access. It’s best to install disinfection foot baths at the entrance of each house, and all tools should either be dedicated to a single house or thoroughly disinfected before each use.

Transportation equipment for chicks, feed, or manure must also be disinfected, as these vehicles can be silent carriers of the virus. Implementing an “All-in, All-out” system in poultry houses, where all birds enter and exit simultaneously, allows for complete washing and disinfection of the entire facility between cycles. There should be a minimum of 10 days left empty between two rearing periods to allow sufficient time for thorough environmental sanitation and pathogen reduction.

Poultry Infectious Bronchitis Vaccination: The Cornerstone of Prevention

Vaccination is the most effective and essential tool for preventing Avian Infectious Bronchitis (IB) in poultry. Since this disease is caused by a highly contagious virus with various strains, designing a scientific and precise vaccination program, tailored to the regional epidemiological conditions, is mandatory and should always be done in consultation with a veterinarian.

In most cases, live attenuated vaccines such as H120, H52, 4/91, or CR88 are administered to chicks at 1 to 14 days of age. These vaccines are given through various methods, including spray, eye drop, or via drinking water. In broiler breeder and laying hen flocks, killed (oil emulsion) vaccines are also used to boost immunity in later stages of life, as they induce a stronger immune response.
The method of vaccination is of paramount importance. Factors such as correct vaccine reconstitution in water, maintaining the appropriate temperature, uniform spraying within the house, and proper use of equipment are crucial for the success of the vaccination program. Even minor errors can lead to reduced efficacy or render the vaccine completely ineffective.
In areas with high contamination levels or a history of outbreaks, a booster dose might be necessary at 14 to 21 days of age. Furthermore, using a combination of vaccine strains helps induce cross-immunity against multiple viral variants. Especially in breeder and layer flocks, combining different vaccines enhances the breadth and durability of the immune response.

The Infectious Bronchitis virus constantly undergoes mutation and genetic recombination, leading to the emergence of new variants that may be resistant to some existing vaccines. Therefore, flexibility in vaccination planning based on the latest regional information is essential.
Finally, it’s important to note that the IB vaccine poses no harm to humans and is considered safe. Additionally, for broiler chickens, since vaccination is performed early in the rearing period, the vaccine’s effect diminishes by the end of the cycle, and there’s no concern about vaccine residues in the final product.

In summary, a well-planned vaccination program, coupled with strict biosecurity principles and proper environmental management, forms the fundamental basis for controlling and preventing Avian Infectious Bronchitis in poultry farms, playing a crucial role in maintaining flock health and reducing economic losses.

Related Article: Understanding Types of Poultry Vaccination

Quarantine for New Flocks: A Vital Step to Prevent Avian Infectious Bronchitis Outbreaks

One of the simplest yet most effective preventive measures against highly contagious diseases like Infectious Bronchitis (IB) is the quarantine of newly introduced flocks. Whether it’s day-old chicks or adult birds, they must be kept in a separate environment for a specific period—typically between 10 to 14 days—before being integrated into the main flock. This timeframe allows for monitoring the birds’ health for any signs of disease and prevents the potential transmission of viruses to other birds.

Failing to implement this simple but crucial step can have severe consequences. If an incoming bird is a carrier of the virus, its direct introduction into the main house will quickly spread the disease among all flock members, leading to significant mortality, reduced production, and economic losses.

Another important consideration, especially in well-managed commercial poultry systems, is the “All-in, All-out” system, where all birds enter and exit the rearing house simultaneously. This method simplifies hygiene management and allows for thorough washing, disinfection, and a biological rest period for the house between cycles. Introducing new flocks midway through a rearing period is not only a high biosecurity risk but can also disrupt the entire farm’s management structure. Therefore, in addition to proper quarantine, it’s highly recommended to always avoid introducing new flocks in the middle of a production cycle.

Sanitary Management of Poultry House Environment: Regular and Effective Disinfection of Houses, Equipment, and Vehicles

The living environment plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of poultry. Proper ventilation, stable temperatures, and controlled humidity are fundamental requirements for any poultry farm. If harmful gases like ammonia accumulate or if there are extreme temperature fluctuations, the birds’ stress levels increase, raising the likelihood of disease outbreaks. This is especially critical for chicks, which are far more sensitive.
Drinking water must be clean, free of chlorine, and microbial contamination. Feed should also be sourced from reputable suppliers and stored in a suitable, dry location. The accumulation of poultry droppings within the house must be regularly cleaned to prevent an increase in microbial load.

Boosting Immune System with Proper Nutrition

Even the best vaccination programs won’t be fully effective without a strong immune system in the birds. To achieve this, poultry nutrition must be complete and balanced. During periods of stress, such as temperature changes, transportation, or post-vaccination, supplements like Vitamin C, Vitamin E, electrolytes, and probiotics can be used to further bolster the immune system.

Product Purchase: Jahan Kaveh Company’s Complete Broiler Feed, containing all necessary nutrients suitable for different chick ages.

Continuous Monitoring and Veterinary Collaboration

The Infectious Bronchitis virus (IBV) constantly mutates, with new strains emerging in various regions. To ensure your prevention program remains up-to-date and effective, it’s crucial for poultry farmers to maintain continuous communication with their regional veterinarian. Sometimes, more specific vaccines may need to be introduced into the program, or the intervals between vaccinations might need adjustment. Additionally, veterinary consultation can help with quicker disease diagnosis if an outbreak occurs, thereby preventing its widespread dissemination.

Avian Infectious Bronchitis: An Overview

Occurrence: Worldwide.
Age of Susceptibility: All ages of poultry are susceptible, with young birds being more prone to severe disease.
Causes: Caused by the Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV), a coronavirus. It is considered the most contagious viral respiratory disease in poultry.
Clinical Signs/Symptoms: Early signs include sneezing and ocular discharge, followed by depression, coughing, and nasal discharge. In layers, there is a marked decrease in egg production or egg weight. Eggs often exhibit poor shell quality and watery albumen (egg white). Laying hens may also present with ruffled feathers and wet droppings. Tracheal rales, gasping, and urate diarrhea are also commonly observed.
Transmission: Highly contagious and spreads rapidly via aerosols. Contaminated feces, litter, and fomites disseminate the virus. It is one of the most contagious viral respiratory diseases in poultry.
Post-mortem Lesions: Exudate in the trachea, nasal turbinates, thickened or foamy air sacs, and pneumonia may be present. In young birds, malformed (unregistered and hypoglandular) oviducts and yolk material in the abdominal cavity can be seen. Swollen, pale kidneys with urate deposits are sometimes found.
Diagnosis: Virus neutralization, HI (Hemagglutination Inhibition) test, or ELISA (Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay) are useful for measuring antibodies. Virus isolation in embryos or chicken kidney cell culture, or PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction), are essential for definitive diagnosis. Embryo stunting, curling, and death can be observed in inoculated eggs. Respiratory signs and lesions combined with kidney lesions provide a presumptive diagnosis.
Prevention: Thorough disinfection of poultry houses and equipment. Vaccination with serotypes prevalent in your region is crucial. Some vaccines are administered by spray at the hatchery or on the farm via drinking water or spray.
References: (This would be where you’d list your sources, e.g., “Manual of Poultry Diseases,” “Avian Pathology Journal,” etc.)

References:

fwi.co.uk

poultryworld.net

msdvetmanual.com

poultry.extension.org

extension.psu.edu

Rabenau, H.F., J. Cinatl, B. Morgenstern, G. Bauer, W. Preiser, and D.W. Doerr. 2005. Stability and inactivation of SARS coronavirus. Med. Microbiol. Immunol. 194:1-6.

Diseases of Poultry, 13th ed. Chapter 4. Infectious bronchitis.

Avian Diseases Manual. 7th ed. The American Association of Avian Pathologists.

Tagged Disease in poultry, poultry

Jahan Kaveh

Avian Infectious Bronchitis Outbreak: Symptoms, Treatment, Prevention, and Control Strategies