Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Coccidia Infection among Desi and Broiler Chickens in Gombe Metropolis, Gombe State, Nigeria

Aim: This study was carried out to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of chicken coccidiosis within Gombe metropolis, Gombe State, Nigeria.

Study Design: Faecal samples were collected from a total of 100 desi and broiler chickens randomly and examined for the presence of Eimerian oocyst.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in Gombe metropolis, as from April-June, 2019.

Methodology: Floatation technique was employed to examine the presence of Eimerian oocyst. Parameters such as age, breed, management system and sites of sample collection were determined. Mean oocysts count was estimated using the modified McMaster counting technique.

Results: Out of the total 100 samples examined, 21 (21%) of the sample were positive for the Eimeria oocyst. Higher prevalence was recorded in desi birds with 21 (42%) positive. No positive case was observed 0(0%) in broiler birds. Chi square test shows that young chickens with 14 (28%) showed significantly higher prevalence than the Adult chickens with7 (14%). Chickens reared extensively were found to be affected 16 (64%) more than those kept under semi intensive system 16 (64%).The mean oocysts count per gram of faeces was higher (3246.40±817.70SD OPG) in young than adult (3035.70±587.16SD OPG) chickens. The management system revealed higher mean oocysts count per gram of droppings with 3390.60±714.66SD OPG in birds raised under extensive management system than the 2490.00±232.92SD OPG in birds kept under semi-intensive management system.

Conclusion: The presence of poultry coccidiosis in the study area shows that the disease is endemic and there is need to embark on proper sanitation, good bio security measures and the use of intensive system of management should be adopted by farmers to reduce the effect of the disease.