What it looks like
Diphtheritic membranes in mouth or throat — Yellow, gray, or brown fibrinous coating or pseudomembranes in mouth, pharynx, or larynx; difficult to remove
Facial swelling or sinusitis — Face appears puffy; swelling below eyes; nasal discharge
Rales or abnormal respiratory sounds — Rattling, wheezing, or labored breathing; detected with stethoscope
Poor growth and weight loss — Birds fail to gain weight; appear thin and weak
Ruffled feathers and lethargy — Unkempt appearance; birds are inactive and depressed
Abscess or nodule formation (cutaneous form) — Firm swelling or abscess visible under skin; may discharge pus
Sudden death (acute septicemia) — Death without preceding illness; indicates acute systemic infection
Likely causes
- Infection with Corynebacterium species (various species cause avian disease)
- Transmission through respiratory droplets or contact with infected tissue
- Poor sanitation and overcrowding increasing transmission
- Contaminated environment or equipment
- Stress or poor husbandry triggering clinical disease
What to do
Treat with broad-spectrum antibiotics (penicillin, tetracycline, or others based on sensitivity) under veterinary supervision. Administer systemically (injection preferred) rather than in water or feed for better efficacy. Continue treatment for 5-7 days minimum. Provide supportive care: clean water, nutritious feed, and improved housing. Surgical drainage of abscesses may be necessary.
When to see a vet
See a vet if your bird shows severe signs or doesn’t improve within a few days of treatment.
Prevention
Maintain excellent sanitation: disinfect housing and equipment regularly. Quarantine new birds for 2-3 weeks. Avoid overcrowding. Prevent respiratory irritation (ammonia, dust). Cull chronically infected birds. Practice strict biosecurity to prevent introduction of infected birds or contaminated material.
Frequently asked questions
What is Corynebacterium infection?
Corynebacterium species are bacteria that cause respiratory disease (diphtheritic form with pseudomembranes) or cutaneous infection (abscess formation). Various species affect poultry with different clinical presentations.
Is Corynebacterium contagious?
Yes, contagious through respiratory droplets or direct contact with infected tissue or abscess drainage. Contaminated equipment can also transmit infection. Isolation and disinfection are important.
How is Corynebacterium treated?
Antibiotics are necessary for systemic treatment. Penicillin-based or tetracycline-based drugs are commonly used. Culture and sensitivity testing help guide treatment. Surgical drainage of abscesses may improve outcomes.
Can I treat diphtheritic membrane by removing it?
Diphtheritic membranes typically regrow quickly if removed. Systemic antibiotic treatment is more effective than local removal. Removal may damage underlying tissue and worsen infection.
Should I cull birds with Corynebacterium infection?
Culling is often recommended, especially for chronic infections or when antibiotic treatment is unsuccessful. Consult your veterinarian on whether to treat or cull based on the severity and your flock situation.