Overview of bordetellosis in poultry (Turkey coryza, Bordetella avium rhinotracheitis)

Authors: Register, Karen

Submitted to: Merck Veterinary Manual
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: 2/20/2020
Publication Date: 3/20/2020
Citation: Register, K.B. 2020. Overview of bordetellosis in poultry (Turkey coryza, Bordetella avium rhinotracheitis). Merck Veterinary Manual. 1:1-6.

Interpretive Summary: Avian bordetellosis is a highly infectious, acute disease of the upper respiratory tract of young turkeys. Bordetella avium was once the only known etiologic agent but Bordetella hinzii is now also known to be a potential cause. Clinical signs include sneezing (snick), watery or foamy eyes, clear nasal discharge when gentle pressure is applied to the nares, mouth breathing, dyspnea, tracheal rales, and altered vocalization. Antimicrobial therapy is rarely effective but sound husbandry practices may reduce the impact of an outbreak. Diagnosis is based on clinical signs and lesions and isolation of B. avium or B. hinzii from the respiratory tract.

Technical Abstract: Avian bordetellosis is a highly infectious, acute disease of the upper respiratory tract of young turkeys. Bordetella avium was once the only known etiologic agent but Bordetella hinzii is now also known to be a potential cause. Clinical signs include sneezing (snick), watery or foamy eyes, clear nasal discharge when gentle pressure is applied to the nares, mouth breathing, dyspnea, tracheal rales, and altered vocalization. Antimicrobial therapy is rarely effective but sound husbandry practices may reduce the impact of an outbreak. Diagnosis is based on clinical signs and lesions and isolation of B. avium or B. hinzii from the respiratory tract.