Question

Thrush disease in poultry is caused by_____.
A. Candida
B. Aspergillus
C. Puccinia
D. None of the above

Answer 1

Thrush is a fungal infection affecting the intestine and the mouth. It is prevalent worldwide but the morbidity and mortality.

Complete answer: Thrush is also known as candidiasis. It is a poultry disease that affects the alimentary tract. It is caused due to the fungus Candida albicans. It affects the mouth, crop and vent of different types of birds including chickens. The whitish and thickened patches appear on the skin of the vent area of chickens that are affected by candida. Sometimes sores may also appear in the gizzard’s lining. Though the signs of the thrush are not clear on the outside of the bird. But there are some common clinical signs like reduced appetite, depression, lethargy, change in behaviour and chicks may show stunted growth. Moreover, dirty feeders and unsanitary drinking facilities are major places where the fungus can grow. The long term use of antibiotics also leads to infection. Although candidiasis is not contagious, some birds exposed to the contaminated environment can be affected at one time. It can be prevented by proper sanitation. There are some measures that can contribute to preventing thrush:
a) Feed a balanced diet.
b) Add apple cider vinegar every other month in drinking water.
c) Do not put diseased chickens back to the flock.
Therefore, option A is the correct answer.

Note: Avoid excessive use of antibiotics and other stressors. Ensure good hygiene, propionic acid, sodium or calcium propionate at 1 kg per tonne continually. A finely divided powder of copper sulphate (where approved) at 200gm/tonne continually or to 14-16 weeks in replacement pullets.