Abstract
Aspects related to the epidemiology of Megninia ginglymura were studied, in order to determine predisposing factors for the occurrence in layer chicken houses of commercial farms in the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil. An observational, cross-sectional, analytical survey was conducted for identifying major risks or protection factors for infestations. Four hundred thirty-one houses located in forty-three farms were visited in 2012. Regarding the farms, 17 (39.53%) had chickens infested by M. ginglymura and 1 (2.32%) presented Megninia cubitalis. The epidemiological aspects of the occurrence of M. ginglymura were investigated using multiple logistic regression models. The chicken house organization was an important protection factor involved in the occurrence of M. ginglymura (odds ratio [OR] = 0.85). The presence of subsistence breedings of poultry within the premises or at the proximity of a farm was characterized as a risk factor for the occurrence of infestations (OR = 3.92). The use of mineral oil (OR = 0.16) was considered protective against new infestations. Some regions of the state were characterized by a higher risk for mite infestation than others.
Highlights
Some species of arthropods of the subclass against invertebrates such as Dermanyssus gallinae (Acari) are important ectoparasites of birds (PROCTOR, 2003)
Aspects related to the epidemiology of Megninia ginglymura were studied, in order to determine predisposing factors for the ocurrence in layer chicken houses of commercial farms in the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil
The results demonstrated that houses with higher order numbers have chances 1.17 times smaller to be infested by M. ginglymura
Summary
Some species of arthropods of the subclass Acari are important ectoparasites of birds (PROCTOR, 2003). The major feather mites of domestic chickens belong to the family Analgidae, especially to the genus Megninia (Acari: Analgidae). Epidemiology of Megninia spp. in laying hens while in M. ginglymura they are inflated and relatively bigger (AMARAL et al, 1975; TUCCI et al, 2005). Mites of the genus Megninia live on the host, laying their eggs on the feathers (HERNÁNDEZ et al, 2007). Adults and juveniles live and feed on the feathers. Mites are grouped into body parts such as head, chest, back and wings. Mite-infested feather barbules become rarefied and the follicles become swollen and erythematous (REIS, 1939)
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