SEROLOGICAL EVIDENCE OF PASSIVE IMMUNITY AGAINST EGG DROP SYNDROME 1976 IN CHICKENS IN MAIDUGURI, BORNO STATE

The study investigated the presence of passive immunity against Egg Drop Syndrome 1976 (EDS76) in chickens within Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria. EDS76, caused by Duck Adenovirus A, significantly affects egg production in poultry, leading to economic losses. This research aimed to determine if maternal antibodies are present in local hens, which could offer early protection to chicks against the virus. A total of 100 egg samples were collected from various locations across Maiduguri. The samples were subjected to Haemagglutination (HA) and Haemagglutination Inhibition (HI) tests to detect the presence of EDS76-specific antibodies. Results showed that all samples had a consistent HA titre of 1:64, but no antibodies against EDS76 were detected in the HI tests, indicating a lack of passive immunity. This absence suggests that hens in the region may not have been exposed to the virus or that vaccination programs are inadequate. The findings highlight a potential vulnerability in the local poultry population, with young chicks at risk of EDS76 infection due to the lack of maternal antibody protection. The study recommends enhancing vaccination programs, improving poultry health management, and conducting regular serological monitoring to better protect local chickens against EDS76. These measures could help mitigate the risks associated with EDS76 and improve the resilience of the poultry industry in Maiduguri.