A study was carried out to detect and identify the presence of coccidia oocysts in the faeces of village chicken from the district of Pasir Putih, Kelantan, West Malaysia. A total of 135 fecal samples were collected from 15 areas in the Pasir PutihDistrict. The faecal samples were examined by direct smear method (qualitative study). A pinch of the faeces was put onto the glassslide with 1-2 drops of normal saline and cover slip, which was then observed under the compound microscope to detect thecoccidia oocysts. The presence of coccidia oocyst was then identified by its size and shape. Results showed that ten out of 135 samples were positive for coccidia oocysts, and classified as Eimeria maxima and Eimeria mitis, both of which are from two locations at Kampung Chap Banir, Pasir Putih, Kelantan. The remaining 125 samples were observed to be negative. This may suggest that the chickens reared in the backyard (extensive)are less susceptible to the coccidia infection due to their environment with lower stocking density (mostly free ranging chicken), and no damp/wet litter as bedding which canfacilitate sporulation of the coccicia oocyst thereby spreading the infection. Further studies need to be done to elucididate other factors which may affect coccidial infections in free range chicken such as the availability of medications in feed or genetic hardiness and tolerance to field infections. The localvillage chicken industry is an up and coming facet of the poultry industry and needs concerted efforts to boost it.

Data over a period of eleven years was analysed for Infectious Bursal Disease (IBD) virus isolated from chicken samples submit ted to the Regional Veterinary Laboratory at Bukit Tengah, Malaysia (RVLBT) for diagnosis. A total of 247 suspect IBD cases were tested by Virology Section, RVLBT between years of 2006 to 2016. IBD virus has been isolated by using Agar Gel Precipitation Test (AGPT), a bursal homogenate which has been used as an antigen against a known positive antiserum. About 27 cases (11%) from a total of 247 suspect cases in chickens were positive for the presence of IBD. The rate of IBD may be influenced by age of chickens with an increase in the possibility of IBD occurring in chicken older than 3 weeks. Apart from that, both broiler and local chickens are highly susceptible to this disease. Therefore, awareness on the existing IBD cases indicates the importance of strict management procedures, proper management programmes, vaccination and immunisation for chickens in Malaysia.

Most studies on Simulum damnosum in Nigeria has focused mainly on the problem of onchocerciasis from the ecological standpoint. However, this study is aimed at viewing it from the human angle, with focus placed on the ignorance of the rural dwellers about the influences of their environment on the increasing incidences of onchocerciasis in their population. The premise is that, as the government and the scientists are working towards finding a lasting solution to the epidemic, the rural dwellers need to wake up to the realities of their own destiny. They need to come out and collaborate with other good efforts to form a strong united force that will rid their society of this menace. A study on the level of ignorance was carried out. It is assumed that their ignorance has kept the villagers relatively inactive and passive about freeing themselves. A descriptive method was used for this research and about 450 villagers were randomly selected and verbally interviewed. A questionnaire was designed and used as the instrument of the research. The research was carried out in two different villages of Asejire and Asepari. Findings were encouraging. Some of the villagers did not know about the existence of the disease even when some of their close relatives showed the symptoms. This high level of ignorance shows that it will be difficult to attain any cooperation from them in any attempt to make their environment unfavourable for the vector.