All chickens are carriers of various strains of the coccidiosis organism, but not all become infected with the disease. Coccidiosis can also be spread by unknowingly carrying the eggs (oocysts) of these parasites on clothing or equipment, such as shovels or pails, into the flock environment.

What are the signs and symptoms of coccidiosis in chickens?

Outward signs of coccidiosis in chickens include droopiness and listlessness, loss of appetite, loss of yellow color in shanks, pale combs and wattles, ruffled, unthrifty feathers, huddling or acting chilled, blood or mucus in the feces, diarrhea, dehydration, and even death.

Should I vaccinate my chickens for coccidiosis?

Therefore, although immunization of chickens with live Eimeria oocysts is effective and has been the basis of live oral coccidiosis vaccines for almost 70 years, chickens must be vaccinated with oocysts from each Eimeria species in order to be fully protected.