Epidemiological status of Eimeria species infection and associated risk factors in commercial poultry farms in Ibadan, Nigeria

Oyebamiji, D. A.*, Aremu, O. K. and Hassan A. A.

Keywords: Poultry management, Coccidiosis, Eimeria infections, Oocysts
Published in Volume 27
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Abstract:

This study investigated the prevalence of Eimeria species and associated risk factors in commercial chickens in Ibadan, Nigeria. Between May and December 2023, 330 faecal samples were randomly collected from chickens in 22 poultry farms across 11 Local Government Areas. Microscopic analysis was used to determine the prevalence and intensity of infections. Data on breed, sex, age, husbandry practices, and treatment history were also collected. Descriptive statistics, correlation, and Chi-square tests (α = 0.05), were used for data analysis. Results showed that 81.2% of faecal samples were positive for Eimeria oocysts. Seven Eimeria species were identified, with varying prevalence: E. mitis (24.8%), E. praecox (17.8%), E. acervulina (16.8%), E. brunetti (14.6%), E. maxima (13.9%), E. tenella (5.9%), and E. necatrix (5.8%).  Farm-level prevalence ranged from 72.3% (PINW2, PISE1, and PON1) to 86.7% (PAK2, PEG2, PID2, PLA1, PLA2, and PON2). The total oocyst count was 5154.7, with the highest mean oocysts per gram recorded in farm PLA1 (457.7± 204.9) and the lowest in farm PEG2 (88.5±36.3). Age, breed, and management system were significantly associated with Eimeria infection (p<0.05). This research indicates that Eimeria infection is endemic and a significant health concern in Ibadan poultry farms.