Mycoplasma Gallisepticum in Gamebirds
Sci-Tech
Agriculture
Over 65% of chicken flocks are considered carriers of Mycoplasma Gallisepticum (MG) around the world. However, this disease affects all kinds of poultry, from turkeys and various game birds including pheasants and partridges to diverse species of wild birds like flamingos and raptors. In the UK, MG is the most common bacteria consistently found in wild gamebirds and can severely impact the health of gamebird flocks. So, continuously monitoring birds and identifying infection quickly is very important for gamebird farmers.
Vets screen gamebirds throughout their lives, from poults in hatcheries to adult gamebirds, and work closely with gamekeepers when they are in the release pens to ensure they stay healthy. Read on to find out more about the dangers of MG, and how Sci-Tech helps farmers and veterinary professionals keep flocks healthy and prevent loss of productivity.
The dangers of MG
MG is a respiratory disease and often presents itself with the symptoms of conjunctivitis and sinusitis, including irritated eyes and congestion. However, as it is also slow spreading, meaning that, often, infected birds remain healthy without outwardly showing any signs of disease. Symptoms are often not seen until birds become stressed and consequently immunosuppressed. It is therefore very important for gamekeepers to continuously monitor the health of their flocks.
Infection in a flock of gamebirds results in loss of condition and a high level of morbidity, reflecting the disease’s high infection and varying mortality rates. MG is the most pathogenic avian mycoplasma and, as such, can lead to economic loss to the gamebird and food industries. So, testing gamebirds for diseases is essential for both the health of the birds and the safety of the eggs they produce.
Preventing and treating MG in your flock
As many birds can be symptomless carriers of MG, a solid foundation consisting of a high-quality nutrition plan and clean potable drinking water goes a long way. This ensures the birds ingest all the nutrients they require, keeping them healthy and strong, and preventing the disease from taking advantage when their immune systems are compromised. Good husbandry is also imperative, as well as the purchasing of clean stock, culling of infected birds, and maintaining good biosecurity.
As soon as a bird exhibits symptoms, it is best to contact your vet immediately to organise diagnostic testing. Three tests are currently available, including PCR, Rapid Plat (RSAT), and ELISA.
- PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) looks for the specific DNA sequences to indicate the presence of the Mycoplasma bacterium. The test is rapid and is not species specific, and so can be used for all samples. However, if the bacteria is not viable or active, it will nevertheless be detected as the DNA is still present. It is also costly when compared with the other tests available.
- RSAT (Rapid Plate) detects the presence of antibodies in blood samples. If there is a presence of the antibody, agglutination on the slide will occur. This test does not provide a titre level and, as such, is only useful for determining the presence of the antibody.
- ELISA (Enzyme Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay) uses a spectrophotometer to measure an antibody/antigen interaction, which produces a colour change and calculates a titre value. This indicates the antibody response of the animal against the specific presence of MG. Traditional ELISA tests have only been calibrated against poultry and not against gamebirds.
Sci-Tech helps you protect your flock before disease affects productivity
Sci-Tech has validated the ELISA test to provide an accurate, reliable and cost-effective solution to screening gamebird flocks with accurate antibody titre value. This validation has been substantiated by RSAT and PCR results to ensure confidence and repeatability, the assay is currently in the process of becoming UKAS accredited.
Sci-Tech works with veterinary and animal health professionals, offering UKAS accredited serology, microbiology, and PCR testing for every stage with the most comprehensive cross-contamination procedures in the industry. Visit our website or contact our team to find out more.
References
www.msdvetmanual.com/poultry/mycoplasmosis/mycoplasma-gallisepticum-infection-in-poultry#
https://stdavids-gamebirds.co.uk/resources/game-vet-blog/
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