Protect backyard flocks from avian influenza

By Carly Alyse Mirabile for CAES News

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, new outbreaks of avian influenza (flu) have been detected in U.S. aquatic birds, commercial poultry and backyard flocks since January. Although avian influenza is not a threat to human health or food safety in Georgia, avian flu presents a risk to all poultry operations, from hobbyist flocks to the state's $22.8 billion commercial industry.

The key to preventing the spread of the disease is biosecurity.

Often heard but frequently misunderstood, biosecurity refers to a set of practices that all poultry owners should know and implement to protect their poultry flocks from disease.

Birds that are raised under pastured or free-range management systems need added attention due to birds’ increased exposure to environmental disease sources. Symptoms of avian flu can be found at preventai.uga.edu.

What is biosecurity?

Biosecurity is the practice of minimizing the spread of disease into a flock of birds or, in the event of disease occurrence, preventing the spread of disease-causing organisms off the premises. This is accomplished through practical, common-sense prevention measures.

Common routes of infection

Exposure to diseased birds, either wild or from purchased stocks of questionable origin
Introduction of healthy birds who have recovered from disease but are now pathogen carriers
Shoes and clothing of visitors or caretakers who have been in contact with other birds
Use of borrowed equipment that is contaminated with disease organisms
Rodents, insects and free-flying birds gaining access to feed sources

Of all the possible breakdowns in biosecurity, the introduction of new birds into an existing flock and contaminated foot traffic pose the greatest risks to bird health. Properly managing these two factors should be a top priority for poultry owners.

Know the warning signs of avian flu

Early detection is important to prevent the spread of disease. Look for changes in eating, drinking, behavioral habits, and for signs and sounds of respiratory distress.
Sudden increase in bird deaths
Sneezing, coughing and nasal discharge
Lack of energy and poor appetite
A drop in egg production or an increase in soft- or thin-shelled eggs
Swelling around the eyes, neck and head
Purple discoloration of the wattles, combs and legs
Tremors, drooping wings or twisting of the head and neck

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