PREVALENCE OF POULTRY DISEASES AND MORTALITY RATES IN UNGOGO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, KANO STATE

This research project investigates the prevalence of poultry diseases and associated mortality rates among poultry farms in Ungogo Local Government Area of Kano State, Nigeria. The poultry industry plays a vital role in food security, employment, and income generation for both rural and urban dwellers in the region. However, the frequent outbreaks of infectious and non-infectious poultry diseases have remained a significant challenge, often leading to substantial economic losses for farmers and a reduction in the availability of animal protein.This study was carried out using structured questionnaires administered to 30 poultry farmers across various wards in Ungogo LGA. Data collected focused on types of poultry reared, common diseases encountered, mortality rates, biosecurity practices, access to veterinary services, vaccination programs, and farm management strategies. The findings revealed a high prevalence of diseases such as Newcastle disease, coccidiosis, infectious bursal disease (Gumboro), fowl typhoid, and chronic respiratory disease. Among these, Newcastle disease and coccidiosis were identified as the most frequently occurring and highly fatal, particularly during the wet season.Statistical analysis of the data showed that poor hygiene, lack of adequate vaccination, and limited access to veterinary services were major contributing factors to high mortality rates.