Coccidiosis in Poultry: Current Thinking on Eimeria spp., Host–Parasite Relationships, and Potential for Advancements in Control

This Special Issue is a compilation of recent research efforts to better understand coccidiosis in commercial poultry production. Caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Eimeria, coccidiosis is characterized by destruction of the intestinal epithelium leading to hemorrhage and, in some cases, death. Poor intestinal health, impaired growth performance, and susceptibility to other pathogens are common outcomes of coccidial infections. It is among the costliest of all diseases affecting poultry production. In the last 25 years, new methods for controlling Eimeria infections in poultry have been slow to reach the marketplace, and as a result, greater emphasis must be placed on understanding the causative organisms and the diseases that they cause. It is hoped that this Special Issue will stimulate interest in and provide direction for additional research toward this objective.