Hetasca
The most effective serologic test for early detection of roundworm infections in poultry
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Hetasca is a novel serological test developed specifically for the early detection of roundworm infections in poultry.
This test was created in collaboration with Vetworks, Poulpharm and Ghent University, Belgium. It is designed to address the shortcomings of traditional diagnostic methods like worm counts and egg per gram (EPG) counts by offering higher sensitivity and specificity.
Hetasca has been shown to be particularly effective in identifying infections in the early stages of poultry rearing.
This early detection is crucial for timely deworming interventions, which are key to preventing further spread of infections and associated diseases within poultry populations. The test is used to monitor flocks during the rearing phase to manage the risk of diseases like Histomonas meleagridis, a protozoal pathogen that causes blackhead disease. This disease is of growing concern, especially in cage-free and organic farming systems where roundworms can act as vectors for the pathogen.
The application of Hetasca in poultry health management helps in reducing the risk of disease outbreaks during the production phase, leading to improved overall poultry health and increased productivity and profitability for poultry farms.
The name Hetasca is a play on words between the names of the two main prevalent gastrointestinal helminths found in poultry production: Heterakis gallinarum and Ascaridia galli.
Benefits of Hetasca
Here are five benefits of using Hetasca, the novel serologic test for the detection of roundworm infections in poultry:
- Early Detection: Hetasca allows for the early detection of roundworm infections, which is crucial for timely deworming and preventing the spread of infections during critical stages of poultry development.
- Improved Sensitivity and Specificity: Compared to traditional methods such as worm counts and EPG counts, Hetasca offers higher sensitivity and specificity, making it a more reliable tool for diagnosing roundworm infections.
- Prevention of Secondary Infections: By detecting roundworm infections early, Hetasca helps prevent diseases like Histomonas meleagridis, which are spread by roundworms and can lead to severe outbreaks in poultry populations.
- Enhanced Poultry Health and Welfare: Early and accurate detection of infections allows for targeted treatments, improving the overall health and welfare of the poultry, which in turn can lead to healthier flocks.
- Economic Benefits: Using Hetasca can lead to improved productivity and profitability for poultry farms by reducing the incidence of disease, improving feed conversion ratios, and enhancing egg production and quality.