Coughing Chicken Due to ILT Disease
Infectious Laryngotracheitis (ILT) is a highly contagious viral disease caused by Gallid alphaherpesvirus 1, primarily affecting the upper respiratory tract of chickens. The virus has destructive effects on the tracheal mucosa, leading to severe coughing chicken due to ILT. This includes inflammation, hemorrhage, and the formation of thick diphtheritic membranes that can obstruct the airway.
Chickens display symptoms such as labored breathing, gasping, and violent coughing, often accompanied by the expulsion of bloody mucus. The disease begins when the virus enters the chicken through inhalation or ocular routes, targeting the epithelial cells that line the trachea. Within 24 to 48 hours, the virus replicates, causing extensive cellular necrosis and sloughing of the mucosa. The resulting obstructions, along with swollen tissues, reduce airflow and can lead to hypoxia. In severe cases, this can result in suffocation, with mortality rates ranging from 10% to 70%, depending on the virulence of the strain.
Factors like stress, poor ventilation, and secondary bacterial infections can worsen the disease. Stress weakens a bird’s immune system, making it more susceptible to the virus. Inadequate ventilation allows the virus to linger in the air, facilitating transmission between birds. Additionally, bacterial infections, such as those caused by Escherichia coli or Staphylococcus species, can lead to more severe health issues.
Outbreaks of Infectious Laryngeal Tracheitis (ILT) can severely impact poultry production, resulting in significant economic losses for farmers. Affected birds often struggle to gain weight or may even lose weight due to respiratory distress and reduced feed intake. Increased mortality rates further worsen the financial strain, compounded by costs for treatment, disease control, and potential trade restrictions.
Overall, understanding the factors that can exacerbate ILT and implementing effective control measures, such as maintaining biosecurity and administering vaccinations, are essential for mitigating the negative impacts of this disease on poultry production and ensuring the sustainability of the industry.
