Reconnaissance of major challenges affecting poultry farming using participatory epidemiology methods in Jinja District, Uganda

Abstract: 
Herein we report the results of a Participatory Epidemiology (PE) exercise conducted to explore major challenges affecting poultry farming in Jinja District, Uganda. Non probability sampling was used to purposively select 5 commercial poultry farms. Farm owners were interviewed at their farms using a questionnaire to capture data on type of poultry kept, management system, feeding, challenges, markets, input sources, and access to veterinary services. Systematic observations were conducted around the poultry farms to detect and record environmental factors which could precipitate disease occurrence. A total of 75 cloacal and 75 oropharyngeal swabs were collected from the flocks. The swabs were preserved with PBS and transported to NADDEC on ice and tested for New Castle Disease (NCD), Infectious Bursal disease (IBD) and Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) using rapid antigen immunochromatographic kits. Two focus group discussions consisting of 16 and 14 members respectively were held using a checklist. PE tools such as proportional piling, seasonal calendar were used to elicit information. Our Findings revealed that Chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs), Coccidiosis and NCD were the major causes of mortality and morbidity of poultry flocks. Inadequate ventilation, poor feed quality, poor litter management and lack of professional veterinary advisory services were some of the possible factors responsible for occurrence and persistence of poultry diseases. Management practices that mitigate conditions that precipitate the occurrence of the above diseases are recommended. Participatory Epidemiology provides an important tool kit for field practitioners and is highly recommended for disease investigation and control under resource settings. Key words: Chronic respiratory diseases, coccidiosis, newcastle disease, participatory epidemiology, poultry farming, Uganda
Language: 
English
Date of publication: 
2022
Country: 
Region Focus: 
East Africa
Volume: 
20
Number: 
1
Pagination: 
67-83.
Collection: 
RUFORUM Working document series
Licence conditions: 
Open Access
Access restriction: 
Form: 
Web resource
Publisher: 
ISSN: 
1607-9345