Necrotic Enteritis

An acute or chronic enterotoxemia seen in chickens, turkeys and ducks worldwide, caused by Clostridium perfringens and characterized by fibrino-necrotic enteritis, usually of the mid- small intestine. Mortality may be 5-50%, usually around 10%. Infection occurs by faecal-oral transmission. Spores of the causative organism are highly resistant. Predisposing factors include coccidiosis, diet (high protein), in ducks possibly heavy strains, high viscosity diets, contaminated feed and/or water, other debilitating diseases.

Signs include Depression, Ruffled feathers, Inappetance, Closed eyes, Immobility, Dark coloureddiarrhoea, Sudden death in good condition (ducks).

Disease will be controlled by antibiotics and Vitamins/ Mineral supplements.