Ascaridia galli - An old problem that requires new solutions

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Parasitology
• Poultry Health Management
• Anthelmintic Resistance

Background:

• Ascaridia galli infections in European laying hens have risen since the 2012 ban on battery cages.
• The parasite's direct faecal-oral transmission is exacerbated by modern cage-free housing systems.
• Recurrent infections occur on farms despite biosecurity and disinfection protocols.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the challenges in controlling Ascaridia galli in commercial egg production.
• To highlight the need for sustainable parasite control strategies beyond current practices.
• To identify knowledge gaps and research needs for effective A. galli management.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on Ascaridia galli epidemiology and control in poultry.
• Analysis of current anthelmintic usage and resistance risks.
• Identification of factors contributing to persistent parasite infections in cage-free systems.

Main Results:

• Vaccine development for A. galli is currently unrealistic due to biological constraints.
• Current anthelmintic treatments are often administered late and lack strategic application.
• There is a significant risk of developing anthelmintic resistance due to calendar-based treatment strategies.

Conclusions:

• Disrupting the A. galli life cycle through strategic dewormer use is crucial.
• Prudent and judicious anthelmintic use, informed by better research, can mitigate resistance.
• Further research into A. galli biology and sustainable control methods is essential for commercial egg producers.