September 9, 2015

Aviagen's Dr. Eric Jensen, featured speaker at Poultry Federation's symposium

Dr. Eric Jensen, Aviagen's Grandparent Program Veterinarian, discussed Avian Influenza (AI) at the Poultry Federation's Annual Live Production Symposium on September 1, 2015, in Rogers, Arkansas, US. 

This year's symposium featured approximately 14 speakers from industry and academia with topics focused primarily on AI.

Dr. Jensen's presentation, entitled "HPAI - What Happened in the US and Moving Forward," examined the US outbreak of the disease this past year and the importance of preparation for the likelihood that the poultry industry may be exposed again to HPAI during the fall migration of waterfowl. 

Several lessons were learned from the outbreak including the need to improve biosecurity practices, as well as the critical roles of surveillance programmes. Also, collaboration with federal and state agencies and industry organisations is necessary to have well-coordinated plan for rapid response against future threats.

In addition, Dr. Jensen emphasised that a robust biosecurity programme is the first and most important line of defence against the introduction and spread of disease agents.

"Biosecurity is the key to keeping poultry healthy and maintaining a steady and sustainable supply of poultry meat available for consumers," said Dr. Jensen.