Prevalence of Mycoplasma gallisepticum in freerange chickens of northern tocantins State, Brazil

Abstract

Mycoplasma gallisepticum is a major problem of the poultry industry worldwide. This infectious
disease, which affects animals worldwide, is caused by bacteria. The aim of this study was to determine
the prevalence of M. gallisepticum in free-range chickens raised in Araguaína, Tocantins, using rapid
plate agglutination test (SAR). Blood samples of 175 free-range chickens from the city of Araguaína,
Tocantins, Brazil, were evaluated through serological tests. Of the 175 blood samples from adult birds
(Gallus gallus domesticus), 74 (42.29%) - [34.87 to 49.97%] had positive serology for M. gallisepticum.
Positive results were significant and show the need for preventive measures in small farms in the region
studied.