Protecting your poultry from avian influenza

Avian flu is confirmed in at least eight states

By Diego Flammini, Farms.com

Even though Colorado hasn’t seen any cases of avian flu up to this point, the Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) is providing farmers and other poultry producers with tips and strategies to consider to ensure the protection of their flocks from the potentially deadly sickness.

“There are currently no cases of HPAI in Colorado. However, poultry producers and bird owners are encouraged to increase their disease prevention practices to help prevent the infection in our state,” said CDA’s State Veterinarian, Dr. Keith Roehr. “Wild birds appear to be the vector for HPAI infection of domestic poultry; therefore it is especially important to limit the exposure of poultry to wildlife, wildlife areas, or through people who may have had contact with both.”

Due to the impact it could have on trade and the fact that not one vaccine can control all strains of bird flu, vaccines are rarely used.

Some of the tips set out by the CDA include avoiding contact with dead poultry or wildlife, keeping tools clean, keeping poultry away from other flocks and practicing simple hand-washing practices if contact does occur.

Some of the states with confirmed cases of avian flu include Arkansas, Missouri, Washington and California.

While on the subject of poultry health, scientists from the USDA developed a new vaccine made to protect poultry from laryngotracheitis (ILT) and Newcastle disease (ND). Both diseases are considered two of the most economically damaging poultry diseases.

Chickens suffering from ILT may have swollen eyes and sinuses, labored breathing, sneezing and bloody mucous.

Birds with ND could show symptoms such as nervousness, paralysis, drop in egg production or thin-shelled eggs and swelling around the eyes and neck.

Join the conversation and tell us what measures you take on your farm to make sure your poultry flocks stay healthy and safe.