Avian mycoplasmosis in Asia

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Science
• Poultry Health
• Microbiology

Background:

• Avian mycoplasmosis, caused by Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) and Mycoplasma synoviae (MS), has been a persistent issue in Asian chicken flocks since 1954.
• Infections manifest as respiratory disease and synovitis, exacerbated by environmental factors and co-infections.
• Serological monitoring is crucial for managing mycoplasmal infections in poultry populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the status and control strategies for avian mycoplasmosis in Asian countries.
• To highlight effective methods for establishing mycoplasma-free breeding stocks.
• To assess the efficacy of different control measures against MG and MS.

Main Methods:

• Review of etiological and serological confirmations of MG and MS in various Asian countries.
• Evaluation of antibiotic treatment efficacy in reducing MG transmission.
• Assessment of preincubation heat treatment for establishing MG- and MS-free stocks.
• Review of vaccination strategies for MG control.

Main Results:

• Antibiotic treatments reduced, but did not eliminate, MG transmission to eggs.
• Preincubation heat treatment of hatching eggs proved effective in establishing MG- and MS-free breeding stocks in Japan.
• Vaccination against MG has been successfully implemented in Japan and other regions.

Conclusions:

• Establishing mycoplasma-free breeding stocks is essential for controlling avian mycoplasmosis.
• Preincubation heat treatment is a key method for producing MG- and MS-free poultry.
• Integrated control strategies, including vaccination and biosecurity, are vital for managing avian mycoplasmosis.