THE PREVALENCE OF LEUCOCYTOZOON DISEASE IN CHICKENS IN SOME DISTRICT OF PHU THO PROVINCE

Abstract

To identify the prevalence and intensity of Leucocytozoon protozoan infection in chickens raised in Phu Tho, 1036 blood samples were collected and tested by using of Giemsa-stained thin blood smear method, the results showed that: The average prevalence of chickens infected with Leucocytozoon protozoan was 19.88%, (from 15.83%. - 34.85%). The percentage of infected chickens with  low, medium and high intensity were 49.51%, 31.07%, and 19.42% respectively. Terrain had significant influence on the prevalence and intensity of Leucocytozoon infection. Higher level of both prevalence and intensity infection of Leucocytozoonosis observed in chickens raised in mountainous areas compared to those raised in the midlands and deltas. Effects of season, raising system, and chicken’s age on the prevalence and intensity of Leucocytozoon infection were also observed. Higher prevalence and intensity were found in spring - summer season, grazing system and old age birds.