Improving Treatment of a Deadly Infectious Disease of Birds

Aspergillosis is one of the most commonly occurring infectious diseases affecting domestic birds. It is difficult to diagnose and even more difficult to treat because it requires daily oral or injectable drug administration for up to three months. Researchers will investigate the use of subcutaneous implants (similar to a microchip) as a method for long-term antifungal drug administration that will also serve to minimize handling of sick birds. Establishing efficacy of implants would help veterinarians treat and prevent this serious disease. Implants would also allow birds undergoing treatment to return to their normal environment rather than requiring extended hospitalization.