It's That Time of Year Again: The Return of Migratory Birds and the Risk of High Path Avian Influenza (HPAI)

As the snow begins to melt and the days grow longer, it signals a familiar and hopeful time of year—the return of migratory birds. These remarkable travelers are making their way back to Canada after spending the winter months to the south. However, with their return comes a heightened concern for poultry producers: the risk of High Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) re-emerging.

The Risk of HPAI is Real and Increasing

Avian influenza is not a new threat for Canadian poultry farmers, but it remains a significant one. Each year, the arrival of migratory birds can increase the risk of introducing HPAI into poultry operations. This year, Canada is already starting to report positive cases of HPAI in poultry operations and wild birds, indicating that the virus is making its way north. The presence of infected wild birds near commercial poultry operations, coupled with the seasonal movement of birds, creates the perfect storm for outbreaks to occur.

While wild birds may not show signs of illness, they can still carry the virus and transmit it to domestic poultry when they come into contact with farms or even the surrounding environment. The close proximity of poultry operations to migratory bird routes only adds to the vulnerability of these farms.

Biosecurity is the Key to Protecting Your Flock

At EthoGuard, we know that preventing the entry of HPAI into your poultry operation is paramount. The best defense against this virus is a strong and proactive biosecurity plan. With the increased threat of HPAI from migrating birds, now is the time to double down on biosecurity measures.

Here are a few essential steps poultry producers should be taking:

1. Limit Bird Exposure to Wild Birds:

   Reduce the risk of direct or indirect contact between your poultry and wild birds by keeping poultry housed in enclosed spaces and securing feed and water sources.

   
   

2. Monitor for Signs of Illness:

   Regularly check your flock for unusual behavior or symptoms of illness. Early detection is key to minimizing the spread of the disease.

   
   

3. Ensure Strict Hygiene and Disinfection Protocols:

   Clean and disinfect equipment, vehicles, clothing, and footwear regularly, especially those that may come into contact with birds or bird waste.  Prevail™ is recommended as both your cleaner as well as your disinfectant to protect your flock.

   
   

4. Restrict Access to Farm:

   Limit access to your farm to essential personnel only. If possible, establish designated areas for farm workers to change clothes, wash, and disinfect before entering and exiting the facility.

   
   

5. Update Your Biosecurity Plan:

   Review and update your biosecurity plan regularly to ensure it reflects the latest guidelines and best practices.

   
   

Why EthoGuard?

EthoGuard is committed to supporting Canadian poultry producers in safeguarding their flocks against avian diseases like HPAI. We offer tailored biosecurity solutions designed to meet the unique needs of your operation. Whether you are a small-scale producer or part of a larger commercial operation, we have the tools and expertise to help you maintain the highest biosecurity standards.

By implementing and adhering to strong biosecurity measures, poultry producers can significantly reduce the risk of introducing HPAI into their facilities. The time to act is now—before the virus has a chance to infiltrate your operation. Prevention is always the most effective and cost-efficient strategy.

Stay Informed and Be Prepared

As we enter this high-risk period for HPAI, it’s important for all poultry producers to stay informed about the latest developments. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and other governmental bodies provide regular updates on the situation, including confirmed cases of HPAI in wild birds and poultry.

By staying informed, you can quickly adapt your biosecurity plan as new information emerges.

The return of migratory birds is a beautiful reminder of nature’s cycles, but it also serves as a warning for the agricultural community. Now is the time to strengthen your biosecurity practices and protect your flock from the ever-present threat of avian influenza.

Stay vigilant, stay informed, and stay safe.

EthoGuard – Your Partner in Biosecurity

For more information on how EthoGuard can help you strengthen your biosecurity plan, contact us today or visit our website. Let’s work together to keep your farm safe from avian influenza this season.