Prevalence and associated risk factors of haemoparasites, and their effects on hematological profile in domesticated chickens in District Layyah, Punjab, Pakistan.

Several haemoparasites commonly infect avian species, including chicken that significantly decline productivity and ultimately lead to high mortality rate. The current study was designed to assess the prevalence and associated risk factors of haemoparasites in domesticated chickens in and around District Layyah, Punjab Province, Pakistan. For this purpose, blood samples from a total of 384 backyard chickens were collected from wing vein using sterile insulin syringe. The parasites were identified from Giemsa stained thin blood smears based on morphological features using standard keys. Results demonstrated that a total of 265 backyard chickens (69%) were infected with haemoparasites in District Layyah. According to genus-wise distribution, 31.5%, 24.4% and 13% prevalence of genera Plasmodium/Haemoproteus, Leucocytozoon and mixed species were recorded, respectively. Among associated risk factors, the prevalence was relatively higher in females, chicks, naked neck breeds, scavengers feeding patterns and chickens reared at fully open coops type. The information given in the study could be of much importance in planning of an effective haemoparasites control program at District and Provincial level.