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Since 1998!
Paratyphoid — Salmonellosis
Cause - This very common and quite widespread disease is
caused by a gram-negative bacterium which is flagellated,
therefore mobile. It can be brought into a loft either
through introduction of infected pigeons, by rodents,
through inhalation of infected dust, on the soles of
fanciers' shoes, by roaches, or through contact with wild
pigeons. Often an adult bird that has overcome the disease
remains a carrier and continues to produce infected
droppings.
Symptoms - Salmonella flagellates can be found throughout
the body in severely infected birds. Thus, a variety of
symptoms is possible. Most adult birds will show rapid
weight loss, along with somewhat loose, greenish droppings.
Some birds may develop swelling in the leg joints or feet,
or may develop wing boils. Other birds may have the "twisted
neck" syndrome commonly associated with PMV. Baby birds will
often show labored breathing or die in the nest before the
second week after hatching. Another symptom is young dying
in the egg.
Prevention - Loft hygiene is critical, because salmonella
flagellates can live in the droppings for some time. Regular
cleaning and disinfecting of lofts, feeders and drinkers is
imperative. Minimizing contact with rodents, roaches, and
wild birds, quarantining newly acquired birds, and
maintaining an acid pH level below 4.0 in our lofts are all
helpful steps in keeping this disease under control. Several
veterinarians have recommended the use of Nolvasan
disinfectant at one teaspoon per gallon of drinking water
regularly to help maintain an acidic environment in the
droppings. Regular use of the salmonella vaccine has proven
to be especially effective.