Introduction
Infectious Laryngotracheitis (ILT) is a highly contagious viral respiratory disease that affects poultry, especially chickens. It is caused by the Gallid herpesvirus 1 (GaHV-1), leading to severe respiratory distress and economic losses in the poultry industry. The disease primarily spreads through direct contact and contaminated environments, making prevention and early management critical for poultry farmers.
Causes of Infectious Laryngotracheitis
ILT is caused by the ILT virus (ILTV), a member of the Herpesviridae family. The virus spreads through:
- Direct Contact – Infected birds shed the virus through respiratory secretions.
- Aerosol Transmission – Inhalation of viral particles in dust, air, or droplets.
- Contaminated Equipment and Surfaces – Feeders, waterers, and poultry houses can harbor the virus.
- Carrier Birds – Recovered birds can become asymptomatic carriers, shedding the virus intermittently.
Symptoms of Infectious Laryngotracheitis
ILT presents both mild and severe forms, with symptoms varying based on the severity of infection:
1. Mild Form
- Coughing and Sneezing – Mild respiratory distress.
- Conjunctivitis – Watery eyes and mild swelling around the face.
- Nasal Discharge – Clear to yellowish discharge.
- Decreased Feed Intake – Birds eat less due to discomfort.
2. Severe Form
- Gasping for Air – Severe respiratory distress due to obstruction.
- Bloody Mucus and Tracheal Plugging – Thick, bloody mucus accumulates in the trachea.
- Open Mouth Breathing – Birds extend their necks and gasp.
- Sudden Death – Severe infections can cause rapid mortality.
Prevention of Infectious Laryngotracheitis
Since ILT has no specific cure, prevention is crucial to maintain a healthy flock:
Vaccination- Live ILT vaccines are available and should be administered to chicks at 4-6 weeks of age.
- Booster doses may be required in high-risk areas.
- Isolate new birds for at least 2-3 weeks before introducing them to the flock.
- Disinfect poultry houses, equipment, and worker footwear regularly.
- Limit human traffic to prevent cross-contamination.
- Maintain proper ventilation to reduce airborne transmission.
- Reduce dust and ammonia levels in poultry houses.
- Ensure clean water and feed to support immune health.
- Avoid overcrowding and provide adequate space per bird.
- Reduce temperature fluctuations and extreme weather exposure.
Management of Infectious Laryngotracheitis
In case of an ILT outbreak, early detection and control measures can minimize damage:
- Isolate Infected Birds
- Immediately separate symptomatic birds to prevent virus spread.
- Provide electrolytes and vitamin supplements to boost immunity.
- Ensure warm, well-ventilated housing to ease breathing.
- While antibiotics do not cure ILT, they help prevent secondary bacterial infections.
- Use broad-spectrum antibiotics under veterinary supervision.
Dispose of infected carcasses safely through incineration or deep burial to prevent further spread.
Conclusion
Infectious Laryngotracheitis (ILT) is a serious viral disease that can devastate poultry flocks if left unchecked. Vaccination, strict biosecurity measures, and rapid isolation of infected birds are the best defense strategies. By implementing effective prevention and management practices, poultry farmers can reduce losses and maintain a healthy, productive flock.