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- Avian Influenza
With the upcoming fairs and livestock shows I would encourage everyone that participates in poultry shows at these events to follow practices that would reduce the risk of avian influenza and other poultry diseases. Avian influenza has been confirmed in poultry in the United States in poultry flocks in numerous states. Several flocks have had to be destroyed because of the disease. Most backyard poultry flock owners look at your birds daily. Watch for signs of illness. You might be able to recognize signs of illness that change the bird’s behavior, or they are just not acting right. There are many poultry diseases, but signs of avian influenza are:
If you suspect Avian Influenza or other diseases consult your veterinarian or a qualified expert.
If you participate in the poultry shows and return with birds or bring in new birds into your flock, you need to isolate them from your home flock for a period of 30 days. Most diseases of poultry should manifest themselves within this time. Isolate them as far away from the flock as possible (minimum 100 feet). Care for your home flock first to prevent the spread of diseases. Thoroughly clean and disinfect equipment and cages that were used in transporting returning birds or purchased birds and areas where you have sick birds. Changing clothes, shoes, handwashing should be used before checking on your birds especially if you have been around a potential source of infection.
Other items you can do to prevent poultry diseases is to keep poultry facilities clean and free of weeds, debris, spilled feed, etc. Clean areas around pens and facilities used. Control mice and rats, flies, gnats, mosquitoes, and exclude wild birds and wildlife as all can carry diseases. Not recommended to allow pets or visitors in your poultry areas as they could be carriers of diseases.