The larvae in the egg reaches infective stage in 2 to 3 weeks. These embryonated eggs are very hardy and under laboratory conditions may live for 2 years. Under ordinary conditions, few probably live more than 1 year. Disinfectants and other cleaning agents do not kill eggs under farm conditions. Birds become infected by eating eggs after they have reached the infective stage.
Available drugs remove only the adult parasite.
The immature form probably produces the most severe damage. The treatment of choice is piperazine. Many forms of piperazine are produced, and all are effective if administered properly. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. The parasite can be controlled by strict sanitation.