PREVALENCE OF COCCIDIOSIS IN CHICKENS FROM GWALLAMEJI, BAUCHI STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Coccidiosis, caused by Eimeria species, is a major parasitic disease constraining poultry productivity in Nigeria. While national prevalence studies exist, localized data for specific communities like Gwallameji in Bauchi State are scarce, hindering the development of targeted control strategies. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of coccidiosis in chickens in the Gwallameji area and to compare infection rates between layer and broiler chickens. A cross-sectional study was conducted in July-August. A total of 100 fresh fecal samples (40 from layers, 60 from broilers) were randomly collected from five commercial poultry farms. Samples were analyzed using the saturated sodium chloride flotation technique to identify Eimeria oocysts. Data on prevalence were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Chi-square test. The overall prevalence of coccidiosis was 55.0% (55/100). A higher prevalence was observed in layer chickens (67.5%, 27/40) compared to broilers (46.7%, 28/60). However, this difference was not statistically significant (χ² = 3.41, df = 1, p = 0.065). The findings indicate a high endemicity of coccidiosis in the Gwallameji area, affecting both layer and broiler chickens substantially. The lack of a significant difference in prevalence suggests that overarching management and environmental factors, rather than chicken type alone, are key drivers of infection. This underscores the urgent need for improved biosecurity, farmer education, and holistic flock management practices to mitigate the economic impact of coccidiosis in this region.