Control of Intestinal Spirochaete Infections in Chickens

Avian Intestinal Spirochaetosis (AIS) is a condition of layers and broiler breeders resulting from infection of the large intestine with anaerobic intestinal spirochaetes, which can lead to wet litter and reduced egg production.

The purpose of this project was to develop improved means to control AIS. On-farm epidemiology and the likely impact of farm management practices and biosecurity measures on the cycle of infection were assessed. Potential interactions between diet and colonisation with the two main spirochaete species were also investigated. Disinfectants can be used to remove potential environmental sources of infection and bio-security measures can prevent cross-transmission of infection from older to younger flocks. There are also dietary influences on infection of layer hens.