Year-Round Vigilance: Ontario’s First Seasonal Case of HPAI Demonstrates Why Biosecurity Remains Critical for Poultry Producers

As the cold temperatures of winter settle in and the migratory birds make their departure, many poultry producers in Ontario may feel a sense of relief, thinking that the risk of Avian Influenza (AI) has diminished. After all, the severe winter weather that has already swept through the province has driven most of the migratory birds—many of which are carriers of the virus—southward. But recent events have shown that poultry producers can never let their guard down when it comes to biosecurity, especially with the confirmation of Ontario’s first case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) this season.

While it is true that migratory birds are a primary vector for the spread of AI, the virus can still circulate in the environment and spread through a variety of other means. This includes human movement, contaminated equipment, vehicles, and rodents.

Additionally, wild birds that remain in the province during winter or birds in backyard flocks are still potential sources of transmission. Therefore, no matter the time of year, biosecurity practices must be maintained consistently to protect poultry flocks.

The First Case of HPAI This Season: A Wake-Up Call

Ontario's first reported case of HPAI this season, which came just this past week, serves as a stark reminder that the threat of Avian Influenza is not limited to the spring and fall migration periods. The winter season, especially one as harsh as the one Ontario has already faced, can lull producers into a false sense of security. With fewer migratory birds in the area, it may seem like the danger is less imminent.

However, AI can still find its way onto farms and spread through less obvious routes. Whether it’s via equipment brought onto the farm or through workers moving between locations, the virus can be introduced even after the migratory birds have left.

Why Biosecurity is a Year-Round Responsibility

Biosecurity is the cornerstone of protecting poultry flocks from disease outbreaks, and it must be practiced consistently throughout the year. While migratory birds may pose a more obvious threat during certain times of the year, other risk factors persist. These include:

1. Human Activity: Farm workers, visitors, and suppliers can unknowingly introduce the virus to a farm. It is essential for all individuals entering poultry barns to follow strict protocols, including changing clothes and disinfecting footwear.

   
   

2. Equipment and Vehicles:

   Trucks, feed deliveries, and equipment can all transport contaminants. Proper cleaning and disinfection practices for vehicles and machinery are a must.

   
   

3. Wildlife and Rodents: Even though most migratory birds may have left, other animals, including rodents, can still spread the virus. Monitoring and controlling wildlife populations around poultry operations is essential.

   
   

4. Improper Handling of Poultry and Carcasses: Ensuring that any sick or dead birds are properly disposed of is another crucial element in minimizing the spread of disease.

   
   

5. Fluctuating Temperatures and Conditions: While Ontario has had harsh winter weather, the threat of disease is not reduced by the temperature alone. Cold weather can create stress on flocks, making them more susceptible to infections. Therefore, it’s critical to maintain biosecurity measures even in extreme conditions.

   
   

Practical Biosecurity Measures

To ensure that farms stay protected year-round, producers should follow these key biosecurity practices:

• Keep Flocks Isolated: Limit outside visitors and ensure that poultry are housed in secure areas, away from wild birds and other animals.

  
  

• Clean and Disinfect: Regularly clean and disinfect barns, equipment, and vehicles. This should include disinfection of any vehicles or machinery that come into contact with poultry.

  
  

• Limit Foot Traffic: Keep biosecurity zones clearly defined. Make sure that workers, suppliers, and other visitors follow protocols such as changing shoes or using foot baths before entering poultry areas.

  
  

• Monitor and Report: Stay vigilant for any signs of illness in flocks and report unusual symptoms immediately. Early detection is key to limiting the spread of Avian Influenza.

  
  

• Educate Staff: Ensure that all personnel are well-informed about the latest biosecurity practices and are actively following them to minimize risk.

The confirmation of Ontario’s first HPAI case this season is a timely reminder for poultry producers to remain vigilant about biosecurity. The risks of Avian Influenza are ever-present, and despite the perceived lull in migratory bird activity, the virus can still find its way into a poultry operation. To protect the health and productivity of their flocks, producers must maintain rigorous biosecurity practices year-round.

As we move through the winter months, it’s crucial that the lessons learned from previous outbreaks are applied with consistency and diligence. By taking these measures seriously, poultry producers can better safeguard their operations against disease threats and help to prevent the devastating impact that an AI outbreak can have on both their businesses and the broader industry.

Biosecurity is a continuous commitment—and one that is essential to ensuring the health and success of Ontario’s poultry farms.