Diagnosis and management of necrotic enteritis in a flock of commercial pullet chickens

Abstract

An accurate disease diagnosis is of paramount importance for effective disease management. Outbreak of necrotic enteritis in a flock of commercial pullets was investigated. The onset of the disease, morbidity and mortality rates were recorded. Post mortem examination was conducted and gross lesions recorded. Tissues were collected and fixed in 10% neutral buffered formalin and processed for histopathological examinations. Clinical signs, gross lesions and histopathological findings were characteristic of Necrotic enteritis. The disease was diagnosed based on clinico-pathological lesions. As well as bacterial culture and identification. Triple sulfa^®, Tridox^® L.A and Enterocillin^® were ineffective for the treatment of necrotic enteritis, while copper sulphate at 1g/L of drinking water was found effective for the treatment of the disease. The use of copper sulphate at 1g/L of drinking water should be adopted for the treatment of necrotic enteritis after disease confirmation rather than symptomatic treatment to prevent economic loses.