Understanding Infectious Bursal Disease (IBD) in Broiler

Infectious Bursal Disease (IBD), also known as Gumboro Disease, is a serious viral infection that affects broiler chickens, especially in Pakistan’s poultry industry. This disease primarily targets young chickens, leading to high mortality rates and severe economic losses. As a broiler farmer, understanding IBD, its causes, prevention, and treatment is key to keeping your flocks healthy and productive.

In this article, we will explain IBD in simple language for Pakistani broiler farmers and offer solutions that include medicines you can use to help prevent and manage this disease.

What is Infectious Bursal Disease (IBD)?

IBD is caused by the Infectious Bursal Disease Virus (IBDV). This virus affects the immune system of broiler chickens, particularly targeting the Bursa of Fabricius, an important organ involved in immune response. When the bursa is damaged, the chicken’s ability to fight off infections weakens, leaving it vulnerable to other diseases.

IBD is highly contagious and spreads quickly from one bird to another. In Pakistan, where poultry farming plays a significant role in the economy, it is critical for farmers to take action against this disease.

Signs and Symptoms of IBD in Broilers

If your broiler chickens are infected with IBD, you may notice the following signs:

1. Diarrhea – Watery, whitish or yellowish droppings.
2. Lethargy – Chickens become weak, tired, and less active.
3. Ruffled Feathers – Birds may look untidy with rough feathers.
4. Loss of Appetite – Chickens stop eating and lose weight quickly.
5. Dehydration – Due to diarrhea, chickens can become dehydrated.
6. High Mortality – IBD often causes sudden death in infected birds.

In severe cases, especially in younger chicks, the disease can lead to death within a few days.

How IBD Spreads

IBD spreads through direct contact between chickens and through contaminated feed, water, and equipment. In Pakistan, where broiler farming often happens in close spaces, the risk of infection spreading quickly is high.

Preventing IBD in Broiler Chickens

1. Vaccination: Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent IBD in broilers. Chicks should be vaccinated at an early age to ensure they develop immunity against the disease. Always consult a veterinary doctor for the right vaccine schedule.

2. Biosecurity Measures: Maintaining strong biosecurity practices on your farm is essential. Here are some key steps to follow:

• Regularly clean and disinfect poultry houses, feeders, and waterers.
• Limit visitors and ensure they follow proper hygiene before entering the poultry area.
• Avoid mixing new birds with your existing flock without proper quarantine.
• Control rodents, insects, and other animals that can carry the virus into your farm.

3. Reducing Stress: Chickens under stress are more susceptible to diseases like IBD. Stress can come from poor ventilation, overcrowding, improper nutrition, or extreme weather conditions. Make sure to keep your chickens comfortable and provide balanced feed to support their immune system.

Treatment for IBD

Unfortunately, there is no direct cure for IBD once chickens are infected. However, you can manage the symptoms and reduce losses by providing supportive care. Ensuring that infected birds have access to fresh water and balanced nutrition can help them recover more easily.

Supportive Care with Medicines:

1. D.Stress:
   • This product contains essential nutrients like Dextrose, Lactose, Vitamin C, and Zinc Sulphate that help to combat dehydration and weakness caused by IBD.
   • Dosage: Mix 1g in 2 liters of drinking water for 3-5 days to reduce stress and support recovery.
2. ADECK LM:
   • Vitamins like A, D3, E, and C in ADECK LM help boost the immune system of birds and assist in recovery from diseases like IBD.
   • Dosage: Administer as per your veterinary doctor’s recommendation.
3. SILIROX:
   • Silirox is a liver tonic and detoxifier that supports the liver function of broilers, which can be affected by viral infections like IBD. It can help reduce stress and improve immunity.
   • Dosage: 1ml in 3-5 liters of drinking water for 3-5 days.

How to Reduce Mortality in an IBD Outbreak

If IBD has affected your farm, it is important to manage the outbreak carefully to reduce losses:

1. Isolate Infected Birds:
   • Separate infected birds from the healthy flock to prevent the spread of the virus.
2. Hydration and Electrolytes:
   • Ensure that infected birds have access to clean drinking water with electrolytes to prevent dehydration. Use a product like D.Stress to provide electrolytes and support recovery.
3. Improve Hygiene:
   • Immediately clean and disinfect the affected poultry area to reduce viral load and stop further transmission of the disease.
4. Consult a Veterinarian:
   • It is critical to consult a veterinary doctor for advice on supportive treatments and to manage the disease in your flock.

Why Prevention is Better Than Cure

IBD spreads quickly and is difficult to treat once your flock is infected. Preventing the disease through vaccination, biosecurity measures, and regular monitoring of your birds is the best approach for broiler farmers in Pakistan. By focusing on prevention, you can protect your chickens, reduce economic losses, and improve the overall productivity of your farm.

Conclusion

Infectious Bursal Disease (IBD) is a dangerous disease for broiler chickens, especially in Pakistan’s broiler poultry industry. By understanding the disease, following preventive measures, and using supportive medicines like D.Stress, ADECK LM, and SILIROX, you can protect your flock from this harmful infection.

If you ever notice signs of IBD in your birds, act quickly by separating infected birds, providing supportive care, and consulting a veterinary doctor. Prevention is always better than cure, so be proactive in managing your farm’s biosecurity and vaccination schedules.

Note: Please do not use any medicine without consulting a qualified veterinary doctor. Always follow professional advice to ensure the safety and health of your poultry.