mycoplasma

Mycoplasma gallisepticum to be precise.

Mycoplasma is present in virtually all flocks in the UK, and carried by wild birds etc.Certain factors tend to bring it out - such as damp colder weather, coming into lay, going broody, or moulting.

symptoms include

coughs

sneezes

nasal discharge

 

there might be secondary symptoms such as swollen eyes.

prevention

Mycoplasma is present in most flocks, but you can buy chicks from commercial producers that are certified MG free. However, if you keep your hens free range, then they are likely to be exposed to the disease via wild birds. Avoid stress on your birds, such as damp housing, introducing new birds etc (although not always avoidable). Look for symptoms when buying birds.

treatment

antibiotics via your vet. Tylan is the preferred choice, available as injections (not licenced for meat birds in the UK) or soluable - add to their water.

 

Some useful info on mycoplasma:

the poultrysite

pekinbantams