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Black chicken breeding technology
Chicken leukocyte protozoonosis is a severe anemic disease that affects chickens, caused by the parasite *Leucococcus carinii*, which infects red blood cells and monocytes. This condition leads to anemia due to the destruction of nucleated cells in the chicken's bloodstream. The disease is most commonly observed during the fall season and is primarily transmitted through the bite of the *Liposcelis* (book louse), which acts as an intermediate host in the parasite's life cycle.
**Key Features:**
1. This disease exhibits a strong seasonal pattern, typically occurring between June and September. It mainly affects chicks aged 3 to 6 weeks, with high incidence and mortality rates. Once infected, chickens often experience rapid decline and death.
2. The life cycle of *Leucococcus carinii* involves three stages: schizogony (fission development), gametogony (gamete development), and sporogony (spore development). Stages II and III occur inside the *Liposcelis*, where mature spores are produced and then transmitted to chickens via bites, leading to outbreaks.
**Clinical Signs and Post-Mortem Lesions:**
1. Affected chickens show signs of depression, loss of appetite, and in some cases, visible bleeding from mucous membranes.
2. Anemia is evident, with pale comb and flesh. Diarrhea is common, with yellow-green, soft, or foul-smelling feces. Laying hens may experience a significant drop in egg production for up to a month.
3. Internal organs such as the liver and spleen become enlarged and bleed. The lungs and kidneys may also show hemorrhages.
4. Parasitic lesions or blood-filled cysts can be observed on the epicardium, abdominal fat, chest, and leg muscles.
**Prevention and Control Measures:**
1. During the peak season, it’s essential to spray the chicken house with insecticides like 7% malathion or 5% DDT to control the *Liposcelis* population and break the transmission chain.
2. Use of nasal drops or sprays for prevention (400 pounds of water) and treatment (200 pounds of water) for 3–5 days.
3. Administering anti-diarrheal solutions (400 pounds of water) for 3–5 days can help manage symptoms.
4. Long-term use of intestinal tonics like Guan Qing can support gut health, though it is not as fast-acting as antibiotics in treating acute infections.
By maintaining good hygiene, controlling vectors, and using appropriate medications, the spread and impact of this disease can be significantly reduced. Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial for minimizing losses in poultry flocks.