Formulating a control program against Mycoplasma meleagridis using economic decision analysis

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Economics
• Poultry Health Management
• Disease Control Strategies

Background:

• Mycoplasma meleagridis (MM) poses economic challenges in commercial turkey production.
• Current disease control programs, including egg-dipping, require economic evaluation.
• Optimizing MM management is crucial for breeder profitability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To apply economic decision analysis to various Mycoplasma meleagridis (MM) control programs.
• To assess the economic impact of MM control strategies on a hypothetical commercial turkey breeder.
• To reevaluate the cost-effectiveness of current egg-dipping practices in MM management.

Main Methods:

• Economic decision analysis was employed.
• A hypothetical commercial turkey multiplier breeder model was utilized.
• Various MM control program scenarios were compared, including egg-dipping practices.

Main Results:

• A specific MM control program, incorporating monitoring and incentive payments, showed significant economic benefits.
• Continuing egg-dipping within an MM control program is projected to yield $1.58 per hen.
• Discontinuing egg-dipping, coupled with an MM control program, is projected to yield a higher gain of $2.06 per hen.

Conclusions:

• Economic decision analysis highlights the financial importance of strategic Mycoplasma meleagridis control.
• Discontinuing egg-dipping presents a more economically favorable option for turkey breeders managing MM.
• Integrated MM control programs, potentially excluding egg dipping, can enhance profitability in turkey multiplier operations.