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Synopsis The Industry has been finally hit by bird flu. For want of an effective vaccine, it remains virtually defenceless. Marek's disease has resurfaced, inflicting up to 60 % mortality and ruining farmer's economy. Menace of other viral, bacterial and protozoal diseases continues unabated. The drug resistance against antibiotics is on the increase. There are the harsh realities of today's poultry farming. The industry must face up to the challenges. In keeping with the present scenario, the second edition has been extensively revised. Many chapters are completely rewritten. The changes in particular include: The section on avian influenza (bird flu) has been completely rewritten, covering all aspects of the disease with latest information. The disease is also illustrated with many coloured photographs showing changes in sick birds as well as the postmortem findings. Also, a summary of the Action Plan of the Government of India on the control and containment of avian influenza is given; The section on Marke's disease has been revised and updated; A lot of new information has been added on necrotic enteritis, infection, Ranikhet disease, and almost on every aspect of poultry health. Chapter on 'The Avian Immune System' has been revised and updated. In view of the problem of drug resistance and relative ineffectiveness of antibiotics, greater emphasis is placed n the prevention and control of diseases through insecurity, hygiene, sanitation, and routine disinfection. The chapter on disinfection has therefore been revised and updated. A Major effort has been made to update the list of company's products. Those that are no longer marketed are deleted and new ones included.