February 8, 2022

Avian influenza threat can be combated, says Anpario expert

Anpario's poultry product technical manager, Laura Corbett, is encouraging all poultry farmers and producers to ensure a high level of biosecurity and hygiene, with regular cleaning and disinfection to minimise the spread of avian influenza (AI).

AI can easily spread between flocks through contact with infected birds or contaminated surfaces. While poultry species infected with low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) may demonstrate no symptoms or mild clinical signs, infection with high pathogen avian influenza (HPAI) can result in severe disease and mortality rates which can reach 90% to 100% within just 48 hours.

"Avian influenza viruses can spread rapidly through poultry flocks and, as a notifiable disease, can result in huge economic losses and culling of birds if the disease is detected," said Corbett.  "Regular cleaning and a high level of biosecurity are the most effective ways to ensure AI does not infect the farm or production unit."

Specific measures should include boot, wheel and lorry washing, as well as effective drying of equipment following disinfection to ensure that no live virus is transported onto the site. Staff and visitors can also pose a threat in introducing a virus to the farm and cleaning poultry housing thoroughly, as well as ensuring optimum feed and water hygiene, are fundamental control measures.

"Credence, the long-acting, effervescent tablet from Anpario, has a unique chemistry which results in the controlled release of chlorine, which can be replenished into solution as and when needed," Corbett said.

"Credence is highly effective against bacteria, viruses, fungi and protozoa, providing a broad spectrum, fast acting sanitiser for the disinfection of water, water systems, farm buildings and equipment. Its long persistency in water and cost effectiveness makes it ideal for use in biosecurity programmes.

"Credence is also less toxic and corrosive when compared to other disinfectants and efficacy against avian influenza has been recognised by the (United Kingdom's) Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. At a concentration of 333ppm available chlorine, Credence is effective for use in infection prevention measures against avian influenza."

- Anpario