The poultry industry, a cornerstone of global food production, faces an enduring and formidable adversary in the form of avian flu.

The most recent series of bird flu outbreaks is the largest ever in the UK and worldwide – and has killed tens of thousands of birds in the UK alone.

This viral menace, often referred to as bird flu, has consistently challenged the resilience of poultry farming, posing threats not only to avian populations but also to human health and economic stability.

Understanding the persistent threat of avian flu in the poultry industry is crucial for devising effective strategies to mitigate its impact and secure the future of this vital agricultural sector.

Victor Adendorff, managing director Scientific Sanitation Solutions (SSS), outlines the economic consequences and new ways threats can be addressed.

Avian flu is a highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects birds, particularly poultry such as chickens and ducks. The virus exists in various stravian fluns, with some posing a more significant risk to both avian and human populations.

The persistent threat of avian flu stems from its ability to undergo rapid genetic mutations, leading to the emergence of new, potentially more virulent strains.

The economic consequences of avian flu outbreaks in the poultry industry are profound. Massive culling of infected birds, trade restrictions, and disruptions in the supply chain contribute to significant financial losses.

The impact ripples through related sectors, affecting farmers, suppliers, and consumers alike. The recurring nature of avian flu outbreaks amplifies the economic fragility of the poultry industry.

Maintaining effective biosecurity measures is a constant challenge in poultry farming. The virus can spread through direct contact with infected birds, contaminated surfaces, or even through the air.

The persistence of avian flu requires continuous vigilance in implementing and updating biosecurity protocols to prevent and control outbreaks.

Beyond its impact on poultry, avian flu raises concerns due to its zoonotic potential. Certain strains of the virus have demonstrated the ability to infect humans, leading to serious respiratory illnesses.

The persistent threat of zoonotic transmission necessitates close monitoring and collaborative efforts between the poultry industry and public health authorities.

Early detection is critical. Robust surveillance systems that monitor bird populations for signs of infection, coupled with rapid diagnostic tools, can enable swift response measures, preventing the rapid spread of the virus.

Developing effective vaccines is pivotal for proactive disease management. Implementation of vaccination programmes in poultry populations can significantly reduce the severity of outbreaks and curb economic losses.

Combined with this, the introduction of new innovative and non-toxic disinfection methods represents a promising avenue in addressing the persistent threat of avian flu.

Technologies that target airborne transmission, protect respiratory tracts, and comprehensively manage viral excretions contribute to enhanced biosecurity and disease prevention.

SANI-99 for AGRI fogging technology employs handheld devices to disperse a potent disinfectant within poultry housing, even when birds are present. This novel approach tackles several critical challenges in poultry farming, ensuring comprehensive disinfection and disease prevention. These include:

  •  Taking measures to promptly neutralise lingering viruses in the air, the risk of avian flu transmission among birds is significantly reduced.
  • Dust suppression of manure not only mitigates airborne disease transmission but also improves overall hygiene standards.
  • Micro-droplets generated during fogging ensure that the most intricate respiratory tracts and nasal cavities of birds are reached.
  • Fogging techniques comprehensively address transmission through various bodily excretions, including eyes, beaks, and manure.

Comprehensive disinfection and disease prevention measures, alongside vaccination and robust surveillance, can help ensure the health of poultry and also contribute to the resilience and sustainability of the entire industry.