Scientists from the Veterinary Service Department and the CSIR – Animal Research Institute have confirmed the presence of Infectious Bronchitis (IB) in Ghana’s poultry industry.
Researchers collected samples from various poultry farms across nine regions of the country and identified Infectious Bronchitis as a type of coronavirus.
The virus is known to cause significant economic losses in poultry production, leading to reduced poultry output, lower egg production, and a mortality rate of up to 5 percent among poultry.
Speaking to Channel One News at a stakeholders workshop in Koforidua focused on controlling Infectious Bronchitis, Senior Research Scientists Dr. Matilda Ayim Akonnor and Dr. Theophilus Odoom presented their research findings on the prevalence, serotypes, and pathotypes of IB in Ghana. They highlighted that Infectious Bronchitis has been a major factor contributing to the closure of many poultry farms.
Dr. Akonnor explained, “We have indeed confirmed the presence of the virus in all nine regions we visited. After collecting and analyzing samples, we have verified its existence. We have also identified the specific serotype circulating in the country through outbreak investigations. Our goal now is to develop a vaccination schedule for poultry farmers based on this information.”
Dr. Theophilus Odoom elaborated, “We are addressing the infectious bronchitis virus, which belongs to the coronavirus family. This virus significantly reduces poultry production, including egg production, and results in approximately 5% mortality rates, causing substantial economic losses. Many poultry farms have collapsed due to these financial impacts, largely because they were not vaccinated. Our research has identified suitable vaccines for use in the country.”
Discussing the research’s implications, Dr. Jonathan Amakye Anim, Chairman of the Veterinary Council of Ghana, revealed that plans are underway to integrate the IB vaccine into the national vaccination program. He urged the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and other regulatory bodies to expedite necessary procedures to support the recovery of the poultry industry.
“We have finalized the vaccination schedule, which now requires the availability of vaccines. The Veterinary Service Department (VSD) will facilitate the importation of vaccines, and collaboration with the FDA is crucial for their expedited approval. This collaboration ensures swift implementation of the vaccination schedule,” Dr. Amakye Anim emphasized.
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