Biosecurity for poultry Dr. Audrey McElroy Professor and Extension specialist Department of Poultry Science

Disease Prevention diseases of detriment to bird health There are basically 2 types of diseases that must be considered in poultry production: diseases of detriment to bird health diseases of potential human health concerns

Causes of Health Issues Pathogens bacteria, viruses, parasites, protozoa, fungi Nutritional deficiencies Chemical poisons Overmedication Poor management

Biosecurity What is “Biosecurity”? What is a vector? Protecting your birds from disease Preventing or controlling disease transmission by vectors What is a vector? Something that may transmit a disease Rodents, birds, insects, shoes, car tires, shared equipment, best friend, pet, feed, water, dust, air….

Biosecurity Preventative strategies to control disease causing organisms and their carriers (vectors). Protection of poultry flocks from any type of infectious agent. Control transmission of disease from flock to flock. Biosecurity is the cheapest, most effective means of disease control available.

Who should practice good biosecurity? Everyone! Commercial producers Small flock/backyard poultry owners Hobbyists/breeders Youth poultry project owners for livestock shows (4-H and FFA members)

Why should I be concerned about biosecurity? Because of what might happen: Disease and high mortality in flocks Infected flocks euthanized Loss of income for producers Higher prices of poultry meat and eggs Quarantines and restricted movement/sale of birds Cancellation of poultry shows

Major Components OF Biosecurity Flock Management Isolation Cleaning/ Sanitation Traffic Control

Biosecurity Monitoring Points Humans Equipment Environment Animals Contaminated eggs and chicks Contaminated feed

Environmental Routes of Disease Transmission Environmental contaminants: wind water dust feathers manure Drying and sunlight are very effective at killing many disease causing organisms.

Good Biosecurity Practices Keep pets, wild birds and animals and other livestock away from the flock No trading or purchase of untested birds – quarantine new birds Use dedicated footwear/clothing or disposable coveralls and boot covers when checking your birds Hand washing before and after handling birds, manure, coops, eggs, etc.

isolation Measures Confine flocks to controlled environment Screen houses to protect flock from wild birds Avoid contact with migratory waterfowl and other birds Restrict visitors Do not share equipment, coops or leftover feed

Reduce exposure Risks Control vector habitat and attractants birds rodents varmints insects Make sure pen is animal and bird proof

Maintain Flock health Minimize stressors to prevent increased susceptibility to disease Fresh feed Clean water Clean, dry litter Good ventilation Provide an overall comfortable environment

Cleaning and Sanitation Five steps to cleaning and disinfection (C&D) Dry Clean (remove all organic matter) Soap Rinse Dry Disinfect

Disease/Health Checks Watch for symptoms such as: Coughing, sneezing, watery eyes, ruffled feathers, loss of feathers, excessive picking, labored breathing and sudden drops in production and feed or water consumption Eliminate unhealthy or nonproductive birds Check birds periodically for lice, mites, and worms

Finding Help Local Vet Texas Animal Health Commission 1-800-550-8242 http://www.tahc.texas.gov Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratories – Poultry Labs Gonzales – (830) 672-2834 – Dr. Ficken Center – (936) 598-4451 – Dr. Moore

Resources USDA biosecurity program http://healthybirds.aphis.usda.gov/

Resources posc.tamu.edu Extension Publications Avian Influenza Information (subheading) PDF materials Links to websites http://posc.tamu.edu/texas-agrilife-poultry- extension-specialists/publications