In the third edition of Global Talks, I engaged in an insightful discussion with Mr. Ahmad Omar, Regional Strategic Account Manager at Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, based in Dubai. The interaction explored the rapidly evolving dynamics of poultry health management across emerging markets and the increasing shift toward prevention-led, science-driven strategies that support sustainable, efficient, and responsible poultry production. Mr. Omar shared perspectives on Boehringer Ingelheim’s strong global commitment to animal health and welfare, outlining how innovative vaccine solutions, advanced vaccination technologies, and deep veterinary expertise are empowering poultry producers throughout the IMETA region (India, Middle East, Turkey, and Africa) to manage disease risks and enhance overall flock performance. He also highlighted India’s fast-growing poultry sector, pointing to significant opportunities for integrated health solutions, strengthened biosecurity frameworks, and collaborative partnerships to drive long-term, sustainable industry growth.

The Role of Prevention in Animal Health
Mr. Ahmad Omar highlighted that Boehringer Ingelheim firmly believes in “Prevention Works”, reflecting a strategic shift from treatment-focused approaches to preventive healthcare solutions. He explained that proactive vaccination, robust biosecurity, and science-based management practices are essential to ensure safe, sustainable, and efficient poultry production, particularly in fast-growing markets such as IMETA.

He also noted that animal health is closely linked to food security, public health, and economic development, making prevention-led strategies critical for governments, veterinarians, and producers alike. Dr. Omar further emphasized that early disease prevention not only reduces mortality and production losses but also helps improve predictability, consistency, and profitability at the farm level.

IMETA: A Strategic Growth Region
Discussing the IMETA region, Mr. Omar outlined why it is strategically important for Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health:
Key Portfolio Focus
– Poultry vaccines and vaccination technologies
– Parasiticides and preventive solutions for companion animals
– Ruminant health and productivity solutions
Market Drivers
– Expanding commercial poultry production
– Rising biosecurity and disease challenges
– Growing awareness of pet health and preventive care
Strategic Priorities
– Excellence in launching innovative vaccines
– Strengthening partnerships with distributors, veterinarians, and industry stakeholders
– Leveraging digital tools for disease monitoring and farmer engagement

India: A Key Driver of Regional Growth
Speaking about India, Mr. Ahmad Omar described the country as one of the fastest-growing poultry markets globally. He noted that the sector’s growth is driven by rising protein demand, increased focus on biosecurity, and strong interest in preventive health measures.

Mr. Omar highlighted Boehringer Ingelheim’s leadership in poultry health through vaccines such as Vaxxitek® and Prevexxion®, which help control major diseases like Infectious Bursal Disease (IBD) and Marek’s Disease, thereby enhancing flock performance and improving food safety. He also emphasized the rapid expansion of India’s companion animal segment, with increasing pet ownership driving demand for parasiticides and preventive healthcare solutions, supported by strategic collaborations with local distributors.

Innovation, Partnerships, and Knowledge Sharing
Mr. Omar stressed that collaboration is central to Boehringer Ingelheim’s regional strategy:
– Veterinary and Academic Engagement: Partnering with veterinary associations and academic institutions to promote best practices in poultry and pet care.
– Digital Transformation: Deploying tools for disease tracking, planning, and data-driven decision-making for veterinarians and farmers.
– Training and Education: Conducting technical seminars, workshops, and programs to enhance preventive healthcare knowledge and improve on-farm implementation.

Sustainability and Community Impact
Mr. Omar highlighted Boehringer Ingelheim’s commitment to sustainability and responsible practices:
– Rabies Elimination: Supporting the global “Zero by 30” initiative to eradicate dog-mediated rabies through vaccination campaigns and awareness programs.
Reducing Antibiotic Dependence: Encouraging preventive vaccination and biosecurity measures to minimize antibiotic usage in livestock.
Capacity Building: Training veterinarians and farmers on responsible farming practices and animal welfare.
Community Development: Enhancing access to veterinary care in rural and underserved areas.
Environmental Responsibility: Reducing operational carbon footprint and promoting eco-friendly packaging.

Future Outlook
Concluding the discussion, Mr. Ahmad Omar shared Boehringer Ingelheim’s forward-looking vision for IMETA and India:
– Leadership in next-generation poultry vaccines for Avian Influenza, IBD, and Newcastle Disease
– Expansion into emerging segments such as aquaculture and advanced diagnostics
– Continued investment in digital innovation, sustainability, and prevention-focused programs

He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting India’s poultry sector through science-driven solutions, strategic partnerships, and long-term sustainable growth initiatives.

Dr Sanjay Singhal, Chief Operating Officer, Stallen South Asia Pvt. Ltd, Mumbai

Mycoplasma, contrary to many other organisms, lack a cell wall, making them smallest free-living organisms with respect to of both size and gene number. Pathogenic Mycoplasma species in chickens are Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) and Mycoplasma synoviae (MS). MG is typically the more virulent species and results in substantial financial losses. On commercial layer farms across different age groups, MS is a prevalent pathogen and is more ubiquitous.

The ability of different strains of Mycoplasma synoviae (MS) to produce illness varies greatly, with numerous forms appearing moderate. In highly susceptible birds, more pathogenic MS strains can cause serious joint infections, respiratory illnesses, and reduced egg production.

MS often manifests as a mixed infection with other respiratory pathogens, which include the infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) and the Newcastle disease virus (NDV). MS may not necessarily be the primary the cause. These mixed infections can cause significant chronic respiratory illness, particularly under harsh environmental circumstances including high ammonia, low temperatures, and dust. Birds with MS may react more to other live vaccines. Layers of egg yolk peritonitis caused by E. coli have been linked to MS aetiology.

Transmission
Horizontal transmission occurs through direct contact. Birds carry the infection for the rest of their lives. In many respects, the spread appears to be like that of M. gallisepticum except that it is more rapid. Yet reports of slow spreading infections exist. Only a few percent of birds may show clinical symptoms, but most birds often acquire illness by respiratory transmission. Infection may also occur because of environmental contamination or fomites. In chickens and turkeys, vertical transmission is a crucial factor in the spread of MS. When commercial breeder flocks are infected during egg production, the rate of egg transmission seems to peak in the first 4-6 weeks following infection; beyond that, the transmission may stop, although the infected flock may shed at any moment.

Pathophysiology
The pathologic characteristics of synovitis induced by MS involve the joints’ synovial cells hypertrophy and become more proliferative. Activated synovial fibroblasts (SFs) are the primary constituents of hyperplastic synovial tissue in humans with arthritis and play a significant role in the pathophysiology of synovitis.

Matrix metalloproteinases, cathepsins, chemokines, and cytokines are produced by activated synovial fibroblasts, which worsen inflammation and degrade bone and cartilage. For arthritis, reducing the number of activated synovial fibroblasts is a potential treatment approach.

Clinical signs
In poultry, Mycoplasma synoviae usually manifests as upper respiratory tract infection; it may cause mild respiratory disturbances such as rales but is usually subclinical. When the infection spreads to the joints, certain strains of MS may cause a transition from the acute to the chronic phase. Exudative tenosynovitis, an inflammation of the tendons and synovial membranes brought on by invasion of the joint tissue, ultimately results in lameness. The keel bone bursa and the hock (tibial metatarsal) joints are the main regions affected; however other joints may also be damaged. Although this type can be observed in flocks as young as 4 weeks old, it usually manifests itself soon after mature pullets are transferred to the laying farm.

Generally, there is no impact on egg production if the flock is exposed to MS during the laying phase. Egg production may decrease, and desirable egg quality may decrease in flocks that face challenges throughout the laying season. A flock of MS-positive birds that are treated with periodic antibiotic feed therapy might display an irregular egg production curve. Due of restricted movement to feed, water, and nests, lameness from tenosynovitis might further affect egg production.

Oviduct tropism of MS strains have been found recently in commercial layers. It is noticed that flocks infected with certain strains of MS have a higher proportion of cracked and broken eggs. On the apex of the egg, or pointed end, there is a distinctive eggshell defect that may be seen. The rough surface of the eggshell, located 2 centimetres from the apex, is characterized by thinning and translucency, resembling glass eggs. These eggshells lack part of the palisade layer and the mammillary knob layer, according to scanning electron microscopy.

Diagnosis
Accurate diagnosis of mycoplasmosis is crucial for effective management. It is typically achieved through a combination of clinical signs, post-mortem examinations, and laboratory tests. These tests may include serology (blood tests), PCR (polymerase chain reaction), and bacterial isolation from affected tissues.

Treatment
Antibiotics can be administered to control the spread of the disease and manage clinical symptoms. Tetracyclines, tylosin, and lincomycin are commonly used antibiotics. However, it is important to note that these treatments are not curative and are used to suppress the disease.

Prevention and Control
Biosecurity Measures: Implement strict biosecurity measures to prevent the introduction and spread of mycoplasmosis. This includes limiting visitor access, maintaining separate footwear and clothing for workers, and disinfecting equipment and facilities regularly.
Cleanup Programs: Use of appropriate molecule for effective cleaning up of mycoplasmal infection prior to vaccination may provide better results.

Minimize Stress: Stress weakens the immune system, making birds more susceptible to infections. Provide a low-stress environment by ensuring proper nutrition, ventilation, and living conditions.

Surveillance: Regularly monitor your flock for any signs of illness. Early detection allows for prompt intervention and reduces the spread of the disease.

Vaccination: There are vaccines available for both MG and MS, Stallen has killed vaccines against both MG and MS named as MYC Vac and MS Vac respectively, which provides better protection against avian mycoplasmosis. Our MS Vac is the only killed vaccine against Mycoplasma synoviae available in Indian Market. Recommended dose of both vaccines by parenteral route 0.5ml/ bird.

For better results, proper cleanup program with effective anti- mycoplasmal drug is recommended. The above-mentioned vaccines can also be used in midlay vaccination if the priming is done with the live vaccines.

Recommended vaccination schedule