Questionnaire validation for occurrence surveys and risk factor of ectoparasites for poultry farming

Abstract

Introduction: Infestations by ectoparasites and some arthropods are responsible for cause severe irritation, dermatitis and transmission of some pathogens to birds, resulting in weight loss, drop in posture rate and delay in the development of batch of poultry. Objective: To validate a questionnaire to collect data from poultry farms in order to quantify occurrence and risk factors of ectoparasites and some arthropods. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire was developed with objective and categorical questions regarding any poultry ectoparasites. The questions were elaborated in such a way as to differentiate failures in the interviewer's filling, avoiding the absence of a response due to the inexistence of the phenomenon or the lack of knowledge of interviewee. The initial questionnaire applied to 10 workers of layer or broiler farms in Minas Gerais and submitted to a test-retest validation procedure with a weekly interval. Results: The final questionnaire had 89 alternatives of questions, and questions of cage size, predominant material for cage support and the presence of undefined species of flies had low agreement and were removed. Other questions on typological and structural characteristics, including control methods against mites or lice, the presence of backyard chickens or other birds living nearby showed very good or excellent agreement. Questions related to the presence of other ectoparasites and pests showed regular to excellent agreement, although requiring further explanation about differences between mites and lice. Conclusion: The final questionnaire was valid and reliable for the collection of data for analysis and quantification of risks associated with infestations of ectoparasites and other arthropods.