Capillariases

helminthic diseases of animals caused by nematodes of the genus Capillaria. Various species of these helminths are intestinal parasites of chickens, turkeys, guinea hens, mink, sable, foxes, and cattle.

Capillaria are thin, filamentous parasites 5 to 50 mm long. They develop outside the host, most species requiring intermediate hosts (earthworms). The nematodes cause inflammation (generally chronic) of the intestine or urinary bladder (depending on the site of infestation) in the host. Phenothiazine is used in treatment. To prevent capillariases in poultry, chicken coops should be cleaned regularly and the litter subjected to biothermal disinfection. Fur-bearing animals should be kept on a screened floor that is raised above the ground.