Guides 2 min read
With poultry diseases, the best treatment is keeping them out. Basic biosecurity steps any farm can apply.
On a poultry farm, a disease entering the flock can undo weeks of work in a few days. Biosecurity is the set of rules that keeps pathogens from entering the farm and from spreading within it.
Entry control
Everyone who enters the farm should be logged. Visitors should not enter the houses unless necessary; when they do, they wear the farm's own protective clothing, hairnet and boots. People who have just come from another poultry farm should postpone their visit.
Disinfection points
Every house entrance should have a footbath, and the solution should be refreshed regularly. Vehicle wheels should be disinfected on entry. Handwashing and sanitizing stations should be easy to reach.
Wild birds and rodents
Wild birds are important carriers of diseases such as avian influenza. House openings should be screened, and feed and water kept out of wild birds' reach. A regular rodent control program is essential.
All-in, all-out
Birds of the same age go into a house together and leave together. The house is then fully cleaned, disinfected and left empty for a period. Keeping flocks of different ages on the same site makes it much harder to break disease cycles.
Mortality and waste
Dead birds should be collected daily and disposed of according to regulations. Keep records: a sudden rise in mortality is the first warning sign.
Report any suspicion
Some diseases, such as avian influenza, are notifiable. If you see a sudden rise in deaths, a sharp drop in feed or water intake, or respiratory signs, inform your veterinarian and the local agriculture directorate without delay.
At Atmaca Hindicilik, we apply biosecurity rules at every stage of production.
