Abstract

The poultry sector in Senegal has experienced substantial growth due to increased private investment following the 2005 outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), leading to improved socio-economic conditions and enhanced protein intake. Despite this progress, the sector faces significant health challenges from respiratory diseases, including Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza, Newcastle Disease, Infectious Laryngotracheitis (ILT), Swollen Head Syndrome (SHS), and Mycoplasmosis (Mycoplasma synoviae). To address these issues, an observational cross-sectional study was conducted in Dakar and Thiès, involving 20 randomly selected layer farms. Blood samples from 20 birds per farm (a total of 400 samples) were analyzed using indirect ELISA, and farm owners completed detailed questionnaires on biosecurity, vaccination, and disease management practices. Data were recorded in Microsoft Excel and analyzed with STATA software using logistic regression tests to explore relationships between seroprevalence and various variables. Results revealed high seroprevalence rates of 95% for Swollen Head Syndrome, 60% for Mycoplasmosis, and 25% for ILT. The study highlighted significant deficiencies in biosecurity and vaccination practices, with only 15% of farms using footbaths, and 80% experiencing vaccination failures due to poor-quality vaccines. Statistical analysis showed no significant influence of breed, age, or farming type on the prevalence of these diseases. These findings indicate critical shortcomings in current poultry health management practices in Senegal. The lack of effective biosecurity measures, such as the low use of footbaths and inadequate litter management, contributes to the spread of respiratory diseases. Additionally, the high prevalence of vaccination failures underscores the urgent need for improved vaccine quality and administration techniques.

Key words: Infectious laryngotracheitis, swollen head syndrome (SHS), mycoplasmosis, biosecurity, Senegal.