Understanding Eimeria spp. in Poultry 2025: Challenges, Economic Impact, and Control Strategies

Eimeria spp., the causative agent of avian coccidiosis, poses a significant threat to poultry farming worldwide. These protozoan parasites invade the intestinal lining of chickens, leading to severe economic losses due to reduced growth rates, increased feed conversion ratios, and elevated mortality. According to recent estimates, coccidiosis results in global annual losses exceeding USD 14 billion (Bafundo, 2025). The ongoing advancements in control strategies, such as chemoprophylaxis, vaccination, and alternative approaches, have played a crucial role in mitigating the effects of Eimeria infections. However, new challenges, including drug resistance and consumer demand for antibiotic-free poultry, necessitate innovative approaches for sustainable disease management (Blake et al., 2020).

Common Eimeria Species and Their Affected Locations

Below is a table summarizing different Eimeria species and their primary sites of infection within the poultry intestine:

For practical strategies to protect your flock from diseases like coccidiosis, explore our guide on Useful Tips for Poultry Health and Disease Control.

Current Strategies for Eimeria Control

1. Chemoprophylaxis and Drug Resistance

Since the 1940s, chemotherapy using coccidiostats has been the primary approach to control coccidiosis. Ionophores and chemical anticoccidials have provided effective disease suppression; however, prolonged use has led to drug resistance, limiting their long-term efficacy (Hofacre et al., 2018). Additionally, regulations in the European Union and the No Antibiotics Ever (NAE) movement in the United States have restricted the use of certain anticoccidials, prompting the search for alternative solutions. To understand the broader context of antibiotic resistance in poultry, check out our blog on Antibiotic Resistance in Poultry Industry: History & Background.

2. Vaccination Strategies

Live coccidiosis vaccines have emerged as a promising solution for reducing dependency on anticoccidials. These vaccines contain drug-sensitive strains of Eimeria, allowing gradual exposure and immunity development (Bafundo, 2025). However, concerns regarding vaccine-induced intestinal damage and performance loss have led to hybrid strategies, such as the “bio-shuttle program,” which combines vaccines with short-term anticoccidial treatments. For a broader look at how technology is enhancing poultry management, including disease control, see our blog on Different Applications of Artificial Intelligence in the Poultry Industry.

3. Novel Approaches in Coccidiosis Management

Advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and molecular research have facilitated the development of non-living vaccines and targeted therapeutics. Additionally, research on essential oils (thyme, oregano, and garlic), plant-based saponins (Yucca and Quillaja), and probiotic supplements offers alternative solutions for coccidiosis prevention and gut health management (Patel et al., 2022). To explore how plant-based additives are revolutionizing poultry health, read our blog on Phytogenic Feed.

Economic Impact of Eimeria spp. in India

India ranks among the top poultry-producing nations, with a rapidly growing broiler and layer industry. Coccidiosis remains a significant challenge for Indian poultry farmers, especially in densely populated farming areas with high humidity, which favors the sporulation of Eimeria oocysts (Wang et al., 2024). The economic losses in India due to coccidiosis are substantial, primarily attributed to:

• Increased Production Costs: The necessity for prophylactic treatments and vaccines increases input costs.
• Reduced Growth Performance: Infected birds exhibit lower feed efficiency and weight gain.
• Higher Mortality Rates: Severe cases of coccidiosis lead to significant flock losses.
• Downgraded Meat and Egg Quality: Intestinal damage results in poor carcass quality and reduced egg production.

To mitigate these losses, Indian poultry farms are increasingly adopting integrated coccidiosis management programs, including improved biosecurity, rotational drug usage, and probiotic-enriched diets (Bafundo, 2025). 

Conclusion

The control of Eimeria spp. remains a critical focus in poultry production. While traditional approaches such as chemoprophylaxis and vaccination continue to play vital roles, emerging trends emphasize sustainable and antibiotic-free strategies. India’s poultry sector, facing economic losses due to coccidiosis, must adopt an integrated approach, incorporating AI-based disease detection, alternative therapeutics, and improved management practices. Future research should focus on developing next-generation vaccines and novel antimicrobial compounds to ensure efficient poultry production and food security (Blake et al., 2020). For insights into how sustainable practices can support these efforts, check out our blog on How Sustainable Practices in Poultry Waste Management Can Help Shape the Future?

References

1. Bafundo, K. (2025). Current Thinking on Eimeria spp. in Poultry and Potential for Advancements in Control. Animals, 15, 424. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15030424
2. Blake, D.P. et al. (2020). Re-calculating the cost of coccidiosis in chickens. Veterinary Research, 51, 115.
3. Hofacre, C.L. et al. (2018). An optimist’s view on limiting necrotic enteritis and maintaining broiler gut health. Poultry Science, 97, 1929–1933.
4. Wang, Z. et al. (2024). Alterations in ileal microbiota and fecal metabolite profiles of chickens with immunity to Eimeria mitis. Animals, 14, 3515.

Patel, H. et al. (2022). Role of artificial intelligence in livestock and poultry farming. Sinkron: J. Ilm. Tek. Inform., 7, 2425–2429.