ADVANCEMENTS IN TECHNOLOGY FOR DIAGNOSING AND CONTROLLING COCCIDIOSIS IN POULTRY: A REVIEW OF THE EIMERIA GENUS

Abstract

Coccidiosis accounts for significant economic losses in poultry production, with a global impact estimated at $3 billion annually. The spread of the disease is facilitated by typical conditions of intensive production systems, further exacerbated by climate changes that increase the frequency of outbreaks in new regions. Traditional control methods, relying on anticoccidial drugs, have been compromised by the development of resistance, driving the adoption of live attenuated and recombinant vaccines. Advances in molecular diagnostics, such as real-time PCR and next-generation sequencing, provide greater precision in species identification and disease control. The economic impact, etiology, epidemiology, and new approaches in the diagnosis and control of coccidiosis highlight future challenges, including anticoccidial resistance and the pressing need for more sustainable solutions.