Research needs and priorities for avian internal parasites in the United States

SUMMARY The importance of parasitic infections to the poultry industry has been well documented. The introduction of large scale confinement rearing techniques have decreased the variety of parasitic diseases, but have increased vheir frequency and economic impact. Coccidiosis and helminthiasis are the two most important parasitic diseases, although diseases such as histoplasmosis and leukocytozoonosis have the potential to become serious in certain geographic areas. Much of the research effort has been directed at the development of new anticoccidial drugs. However, drug resistance is an increasing problem, and there is a need to develop vaccines, at least for the control of coccidiosis. A better understanding of the biologic aspects of parasitic infections, including the host response, would allow for coordinated control programs involving diagnosis, management, treatment, and immunization. Specific recommendations are made for research objectives with immediate and long-range application.