EDS'76 in a U.S. broiler breeder flock
A new study describes the first case of Egg Drop Syndrome 76 (EDS’76) in broiler breeders in the United States. The affected farm consisted of four houses with approximately 35-week-old hens, which experienced a 15% drop in egg production over the course of a week. The initial signs were noted in House 4, with subsequent impacts observed in the other houses. The investigation revealed numerous shell-less, wrinkled, and pale eggs, but no increases in mortality or respiratory signs were reported.
Diagnostic methods included PCR and hemagglutination inhibition (HI) testing, which confirmed the presence of EDS’76. Communication with local producers indicated nearby cases of EDS’76 in commercial egg layers, suggesting potential environmental exposure. Despite the production drop, the flock's egg production returned to approximately 74% of the breed standard within four weeks. The report emphasizes the importance of monitoring and managing poultry health, particularly in light of the disease's impact on egg production and quality.
