Eimeria Flashcards
What is Eimeria?
Genus of protozoa parasites able to cause coccidiosis disease.
What is coccidiosis?
Parasitic disease of the intestinal tract caused by coccidia protozoa.
How could you diagnose coccidiosis?
- Lethargic animal.
- Bloody/watery faeces.
- Post mortem exam.
What effects does Eimeria have on the gut?
- Malabsorption.
- Haemorrage.
How are the different species differentiated between?
- Morphology.
- Location.
Why are Eimeria succesfull?
Because oocysts can survive for months/years in an area.
What sort of animals have the biggest problem with Eimeria?
Broiler chickens as they live in high density area with high levels of faecal contamination.
What animals suffer Eimeria infection?
- Fowl.
- Sheep.
- Cattle.
When do the Eimeria oocyst become infective?
After sporulation.
What methods are used to control Eimeria infection?
- Chemotherapy using coccidiostats (drug resistance issue).
- Low dose live vaccine provides immunity.
- Using Avirulent attenuated parasites - disrupts cycles.
- Enviromental management.
What does virulent mean?
Harmful
What does attenuate mean?
Thin, small density.
What kind of transmission causes Eimeria infection?
Oral-faecal.
Where does Eimeria replicate?
In gut.
What are the 4 types of coccidia protozoa?
- Eimeria.
- Isospera.
- Cryptosporidium.
- Toxoplasma.
