Poultry farmers frequently face various diseases affecting their flocks, with Inclusion Body Hepatitis (IBH) being one of the most concerning. This disease, caused by avian adenovirus, primarily affects young chickens between 3 to 7 weeks of age. IBH damages the liver and blood vessels, leading to severe health complications, increased mortality, and economic losses in the poultry industry.
In this guide, we will explore the causes, symptoms, prevention methods, and best treatment options for IBH while incorporating help poultry farmers manage their flocks effectively.
What Is Inclusion Body Hepatitis (IBH)?
Inclusion Body Hepatitis is a viral disease in poultry caused by avian adenoviruses (Fowl Adenovirus, FAdV). It leads to liver failure, hemorrhaging, and anemia, primarily in broilers, layers, and breeder flocks. The disease spreads vertically (from infected breeder hens to chicks through eggs) and horizontally (through direct contact, contaminated feed, water, and equipment).
Causes of Inclusion Body Hepatitis
IBH is caused by several serotypes of Fowl Adenovirus (FAdV), with FAdV-2, FAdV-8, and FAdV-11 being the most common. The disease is often triggered by immunosuppression, which weakens the bird’s ability to fight infections.
Major Risk Factors for IBH:
- Vertical Transmission: Chicks can get infected from carrier breeder hens through eggs.
- Horizontal Transmission: The virus spreads through droppings, contaminated feed, water, and litter.
- Immunosuppression: Diseases like Infectious Bursal Disease (IBD) and Chicken Anemia Virus (CAV) make birds more susceptible.
- Poor Biosecurity Measures: Unsanitary conditions, overcrowding, and contaminated equipment increase disease risk.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Deficiency in Vitamin E, selenium, and essential nutrients weakens immunity.
Symptoms of Inclusion Body Hepatitis
The symptoms of IBH can be mild to severe, depending on the bird's immune system and environmental factors.
Common Signs to Look for:
- Depression & Weakness: Infected birds become lethargic and inactive.
- Loss of Appetite & Weight Loss: Affected chickens stop eating and drinking, leading to poor growth rates.
- Pale & Yellowish Liver (Jaundice): Liver damage results in yellow discoloration of the bird’s skin and tissues.
- Bloody Droppings & Diarrhea: The virus damages the blood vessels, leading to internal bleeding and blood in stools.
- Swollen Abdomen: Liver enlargement causes abdominal swelling and fluid accumulation.
- High Mortality Rate (Up to 30% or More): Young chicks are highly vulnerable, leading to severe losses in broiler farms.
Diagnosis of Inclusion Body Hepatitis
A veterinarian should examine the flock and perform lab tests to confirm IBH.
Common Diagnostic Methods:
- Post-Mortem Examination: Reveals an enlarged, pale, or yellow liver with hemorrhages.
- Histopathology: Liver tissues show inclusion bodies (viral particles) inside liver cells.
- Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR): Detects FAdV DNA in infected tissues.
- Virus Isolation: Helps identify the specific adenovirus strain.
Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent further spread of the disease.
Prevention of Inclusion Body Hepatitis
Preventing IBH requires strong biosecurity measures, vaccination programs, and proper farm management.
Effective Prevention Strategies:
- Vaccination of Breeder Hens: Helps reduce vertical transmission of FAdV to chicks.
- Strict Biosecurity Measures: Maintain clean housing, disinfect equipment, and limit farm visitors.
- Proper Nutrition: Ensure birds receive adequate Vitamin E, selenium, and essential amino acids to boost immunity.
- Control Immunosuppressive Diseases: Prevent Infectious Bursal Disease (IBD) and Chicken Anemia Virus (CAV) with vaccination.
- Use of Probiotics & Prebiotics: Helps improve gut health and enhances the bird’s immune response.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Overcrowding increases stress and disease transmission. Keep proper stocking density.
- Water & Feed Hygiene: Use clean water and high-quality feed to prevent contamination.
Best Treatment for Inclusion Body Hepatitis
There is no specific antiviral treatment for IBH. However, supportive care can help infected birds recover and reduce mortality.
Effective Treatment Strategies:
✅ Electrolytes & Vitamins: Provide Vitamin E, selenium, and electrolytes to support liver health.
✅ Antibiotics (For Secondary Infections): Broad-spectrum antibiotics like Amoxicillin or Tylosin help prevent bacterial complications.
✅ Liver Protectants: Use hepatoprotective supplements such as milk thistle extract, choline, and methionine to improve liver function.
✅ Probiotics & Prebiotics: Maintain gut health and strengthen immunity.
✅ Reduce Stress: Keep birds in a calm environment and avoid unnecessary handling.
In severe cases, a veterinarian may recommend anti-inflammatory medications to reduce liver swelling.
Economic Impact of Inclusion Body Hepatitis
IBH causes significant losses in poultry farms due to:
- High mortality rates (Up to 30%)
- Poor weight gain & feed conversion ratio (FCR)
- Increased veterinary costs
- Lower egg production in breeder flocks
The best way to minimize economic losses is through strict biosecurity and vaccination programs.
Conclusion
Inclusion Body Hepatitis (IBH) is a deadly poultry disease that primarily affects young broiler chickens and breeder flocks. Since it spreads vertically from infected breeder hens and horizontally through contaminated environments, proper prevention and farm management are essential.
To protect your flock:
✔️ Vaccinate breeder flocks to reduce transmission
✔️ Maintain strict biosecurity measures
✔️ Provide a balanced diet with Vitamin E & Selenium
✔️ Control immunosuppressive diseases like IBD & CAV
✔️ Consult a vet for early diagnosis & supportive treatment
By implementing these best management practices, poultry farmers can prevent IBH outbreaks and ensure a healthy, profitable flock.