The dangerously transmissible disease, Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) is currently resurging at an alarming rate in Pennsylvania. All chicken, turkey, and duck farms in the state should be on heightened alert and exercise strict biosecurity protocols at this time, and through the coming months.
Manure handlers and brokers, Nutrient and Odor Management Planners, Conservation Districts, and all others working with and within the poultry industry should be proactive with disease transfer precautions. Manure can act as a transport vector of this virus, requiring thorough cleaning and disinfection of equipment before and after working with any poultry farm. All manure equipment such as trucks and spreaders must be cleaned of all organic matter (manure, feathers, bedding, etc.) with washing before disinfection is conducted. Disinfectants are not designed to work on masses of organic material. Use disinfectants according to label instructions. Beyond the mechanical equipment, remember to pay attention to clothing, boots, other tools, floormats, etc.
Risks exists beyond farm-to-farm movement. Since HPAI transmission is associated with migratory birds, especially waterfowl, the disease can be picked up on tires from a field or roadway where a wild animal has shed the disease. This means that detailed attention should be paid to on-site travel with precautions taken to avoid cross traffic between field equipment and those that will work directly with confined flock animals. Clearly define lines of separation and be sure that all employees of farms and the commercial manure handling entities remain compliant. This may mean that the hauler must detour around a path on which barn employees travel. Limit on-farm activities to only those that are necessary. Limit the number of vehicles that enter farms to only those necessary for task completion.
Clearly discuss all these items with farm management before work begins to minimize risk of miscommunication. Document cleaning and disinfection activities with each piece of equipment. If you suspect HPAI in a flock or have any questions, please contact the PA Department of Agriculture hotline at (717) 772-2852. If a quarantine scenario is applied in an area in which you work, you must adhere to the protocols of the quarantine order. This may mean that agency authorities provide specific instruction.