In autumn and winter, as the temperature drops and the weather becomes colder, the incidence of various diseases increases significantly. Among these, a notable issue is the sharp decline in egg production among laying hens, which causes substantial economic losses to poultry farmers. According to recent field surveys conducted by the author, it has been observed that avian influenza plays a major role in this decline, especially during the colder months.
**Clinical Symptoms**
The disease primarily affects hens at the peak of their egg-laying cycle. Chickens that have already passed their peak production period show lower rates of infection. The early signs include mild respiratory issues, with some birds exhibiting green or yellow-green diarrhea. Their feces may be watery, but their overall behavior and feed intake remain normal initially. As the disease progresses, feed consumption decreases, and the chickens appear lethargic. Egg quality begins to deteriorate—eggshells become lighter in color, and soft or misshapen eggs start to appear. Over time, the egg production rate declines rapidly, often dropping by 10% to 30% within just a few days. Some hens may develop purple combs, mucus discharge, and even die sporadically. After recovery, egg production improves slowly, making it essential to act quickly when symptoms first appear.
**Preventive Measures**
Once the hens are put into production, it's recommended to implement a monthly health maintenance program. This includes using herbal remedies such as clear toads, spices, and kidney tonics in drinking water for three consecutive days. Especially during the winter season, when viral diseases are more prevalent, maintaining a strong immune system is crucial.
**Treatment Plan**
The primary goal of treatment is to control the virus, reduce inflammation, and prevent secondary bacterial infections. A common medication regimen includes Jinfu Tamiflu in drinking water, along with Jinju Shuan spices for four days. If E. coli is suspected, Bacterial Wei can be added to the treatment.
To improve egg production post-infection, the focus should be on reducing inflammation, supporting liver function, promoting blood circulation, and enhancing follicle development. This can be achieved by mixing cod liver oil and vitamin E in the drinking water for five days, followed by a 10- to 15-day course of liver and egg whitening mix.
**Important Reminder**
As soon as you notice any signs—such as respiratory issues, abnormal feces, or declining egg quality—it’s critical to start treatment immediately. Delaying intervention can lead to severe losses.
During treatment, some severely affected hens may experience reduced feed intake and egg production. However, following the full course of medication for 4 to 6 days usually leads to effective recovery.
This disease is closely linked to feeding practices and overall management. Establishing a solid preventive healthcare program, along with regular environmental disinfection, is key to long-term success in maintaining healthy flocks.
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