January 20, 2006

Bird flu to be discussed at International Poultry Expo

How to deal with bird flu, especially highly pathogenic strains of the virus, is just one of several key topics that will be discussed at the 58th annual International Poultry Exposition to be held January 25-27 in the southern US city of Atlanta.

The poultry industry is facing one of its biggest challenges ever in controlling and halting the spread of highly pathogenic bird flu. The H5N1 virus has resulted in the destruction of millions of poultry in recent years as the disease has moved across Asia into eastern Europe. Almost 80 people have died from the disease, with nearly all of them having contracted it from handling infected birds.

There are worldwide concerns of a possible pandemic should the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus mutate to a form that would allow it to transfer from human to human. Members of the UN have pledged US$1.9 billion in aid to help combat the disease in developing countries.

The poultry expo--which is sponsored by a host of industry groups--is the world's largest exhibit of equipment, supplies, technology and services for the production and processing of poultry and eggs. In 2005, there were 834 exhibitors and nearly 19,000 US and international poultry industry participants attendees. International visitors represented 96 countries. A similar number of exhibitors is expected this year.

The show includes all segments of the industry from feed milling to live bird production and processing, marketing, and other activities.

The event offers industry participants the opportunity to visit in person with customers and suppliers from around the world, learn about new technologies that are available or in development, attend educational seminars, and network with other attendees.

At the 2005 event, 37 of the top 40 broiler companies in the US were represented, and 25 of the top 27 US turkey companies were represented, according to the International Poultry Expo's website.

An International Poultry Scientific Forum will be held in conjunction with the Expo on January 23-24.