Disease is the single biggest threat to poultry profitability in Kenya. Knowing the signs of the common diseases — and acting fast — can save an entire flock.
Here are the diseases every Kenyan poultry keeper should recognise, with their symptoms and prevention.
Newcastle disease (Kideri)
A highly contagious viral disease and the leading killer of poultry in Kenya. Signs include greenish diarrhoea, twisted necks, paralysis, gasping and sudden death. There is no treatment — control is entirely through vaccination and biosecurity.
Gumboro (Infectious Bursal Disease)
A viral disease of young birds that attacks the immune system, leaving them vulnerable to other infections. Signs include whitish diarrhoea, ruffled feathers, dehydration and pecking at the vent. Prevention is by vaccination and strict hygiene.
Coccidiosis
A parasitic disease spread through droppings in damp litter, common in brooding. Signs are bloody or brownish diarrhoea, droopiness and poor growth. It is preventable with coccidiostats in feed, dry litter and good sanitation, and treatable with anticoccidial drugs if caught early.
Fowl typhoid and other bacterial diseases
Fowl typhoid (Salmonella) causes yellow droppings, weakness and mortality, and can be vaccinated against and treated with antibiotics under veterinary guidance. Other common issues include CRD (chronic respiratory disease) and fowl pox.
Prevention checklist
Most losses are preventable. Combine vaccination with strong day-to-day biosecurity.
- Follow a vaccination schedule with your vet
- Keep litter dry and housing well ventilated
- Use footbaths and limit visitor access
- Isolate and treat sick birds promptly
- Practise all-in-all-out and clean between batches
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the deadliest poultry disease in Kenya?
Newcastle disease is the deadliest and most widespread. It spreads rapidly and has no cure, so vaccination and biosecurity are essential.
How do I know if my chickens are sick?
Watch for sudden drops in feed or water intake, abnormal droppings, ruffled feathers, breathing difficulty, droopiness or unusual deaths. Isolate affected birds and consult a vet quickly.