Infectious laryngotracheitis

Infectious laryngotracheitis (ILT) is a highly contagious respiratory disease that primarily affects chickens, but can also infect other poultry species such as turkeys and pheasants. The disease is caused by the infectious laryngotracheitis virus (ILTV), a member of the Herpesviridae family.

Etiology

The causative agent of ILT is the infectious laryngotracheitis virus (ILTV), a DNA virus belonging to the Gallid herpesvirus 1 species in the Iltovirus genus of the Herpesviridae family. The virus is highly stable in the environment and can survive for long periods in litter and dust.

Clinical Signs

Clinical signs of ILT can vary depending on the strain of the virus and the age and immune status of the bird. Typical signs include coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, birds may exhibit signs of distress such as gasping for air, and may have blood-tinged discharge from the nostrils and mouth.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of ILT is typically based on clinical signs, post-mortem findings, and laboratory testing. Laboratory tests can include virus isolation, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing, and serological tests such as the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Treatment and Control

There is no specific treatment for ILT. Control measures include strict biosecurity practices, vaccination, and in some cases, culling of infected birds. Vaccines are available and can provide protection against the disease, but they do not prevent infection or shedding of the virus.

Economic Impact

ILT can have a significant economic impact on the poultry industry due to decreased egg production, weight loss in broilers, and increased mortality. The disease can also lead to increased costs associated with diagnosis, treatment, and control measures.

See Also

• Avian influenza
• Newcastle disease
• Marek's disease

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