Sodium Hypochlorite as an Effective Means of Combating Dermanyssus Gallinae Mites in Chickens

Abstract

The chicken tick Dermanyssus gallinae is widespread across all climatogeographic zones of the Republic of Armenia. The invasion occurs with relatively high intensity in large poultry farms (such as in Arzni, Lusakert, and Jrarat). In 1 cm³ of substrate collected from poultry houses, the number of ticks ranges from 1,100 to 2,800 specimens. These parasites attack birds at night, while during the day they remain in the dust on the walls and under the feed conveyor. To disinfect poultry houses, organophosphate compounds are commonly used. However, these substances are toxic, requiring the removal of birds from the premises before use, which is a time-consuming process. In laboratory and production experiments, we tested a 20 % aqueous solution of sodium hypochlorite, achieving 100 % effectiveness. The solution was used without the need to remove the birds from the premises.