Mycoplasma in Poultry: Chronic Respiratory Disease Welfare
Mycoplasma gallisepticum and M. synoviae cause chronic respiratory and joint disease in poultry, creating persistent welfare problems in affected flocks.
Key Facts
- Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) causes chronic respiratory disease in chickens and turkeys
- M. synoviae (MS) causes infectious synovitis with swollen joints and lameness
- Mycoplasma spreads vertically through eggs and horizontally through contact
- Clean flocks free from mycoplasma infection achieve better welfare and productivity
- Antibiotic treatment suppresses disease but does not eliminate infection from flocks
Welfare Considerations
Mycoplasma welfare impact in poultry is chronic and cumulative. Birds with MG experience persistent respiratory signs including nasal discharge, coughing, and air sacculitis that represent ongoing discomfort. MS-infected birds with synovitis experience joint pain and lameness that compromises mobility and access to resources in group housing. Treatment with antibiotics reduces clinical signs but mycoplasma persists in the flock, requiring ongoing management. Maintaining clean flocks through sourcing mycoplasma-free stock and effective biosecurity provides the most welfare-positive approach by preventing infection rather than managing its consequences.
What You Can Do
- Source replacement birds from mycoplasma-free accredited suppliers
- Implement strong biosecurity to prevent mycoplasma introduction
- Monitor flock respiratory and joint health regularly using standardized scoring
- Use antibiotic treatment strategically to minimize burden while reducing welfare impact
- Work toward clean flock status for optimal long-term welfare outcomes