Эко-эпидемиология паразитарных болезней птицы в Республике Армения: национальный анализ и его значение для устойчивого контроля

Abstract

Poultry farming is an important component of agricultural production and food security in the Republic of Armenia; however, information on poultry parasitic diseases in the country remains fragmented and confined to regional investigations. The present study aimed to synthesize published data on poultry parasitoses in Armenia and evaluate their epidemiological patterns, environmental determinants and diagnostic limitations.

A structured narrative review was conducted using peer-reviewed publications, regional veterinary reports and official statistical data on poultry production. Epidemiological indicators, including prevalence, geographical distribution, seasonal dynamics and diagnostic methodologies, were comparatively analyzed.

The collected evidence indicates that poultry parasitic diseases in Armenia form a stable enzootic complex dominated by protozoan infections. Coccidiosis caused by Eimeria spp. was the most widespread disease and occurred across foothill, mountainous and high-altitude regions, with seasonal peaks in spring and autumn. Helminth infections, particularly Ascaridia galli, were frequent in backyard production systems and contributed to environmental contamination and mixed invasions.

The predominance of smallholder poultry farming, outdoor keeping and climatic conditions supports continuous transmission. Current diagnostics rely mainly on classical microscopic methods, while molecular monitoring and resistance assessment are lacking. The study provides an integrated national overview and highlights the need for standardized surveillance and sustainable control strategies.