� Game birds and migratory waterfowl should not have contact with the flock because they can carry germs and diseases . If the birds are outdoors , the farmer should try to keep them in a screened area .
� Taking some of the birds to a fair or exhibition ? Keep those birds separated from the rest of the flock and watch them for at least 2 weeks after the event to ensure that they did not pick up a disease .
� New birds should be kept separate from the flock for at least 30 days before putting them with the rest of the birds . To prevent disease , it is best not to mix young and old birds or birds from different species or different sources .
� Do not share birds , lawn and garden equipment , tools , or poultry supplies with neighbors or other bird owners . If these items are brought home , clean and disinfect them before they reach the property . And remember to clean and disinfect borrowed items before returning them . Never share items such as wooden pallets or cardboard egg cartons because they are porous and cannot be adequately cleaned and disinfected .
� Monitor and inspect birds at least daily for signs of illness . Investigate all birds with unusual signs or those unresponsive to treatment , especially those that die suddenly .
Disinfectants
What is a disinfectant ? A disinfectant is a chemical agent , which destroys or inhibits growth of pathogenic microorganisms in the non-sporing or vegetative state .
Disinfectants do not necessarily kill all organisms but reduce them to a level , which does not harm health or the quality of perishable goods . Disinfectants are applied to inanimate objects ( object that is not animate . Does not breathe , change , or live ) and materials such as instruments and surfaces to control and prevent infection . They may also be used to disinfect skin and other tissues prior to surgery .
Criteria to consider when choosing a disinfectant
The ideal disinfectant would offer complete sterilization , without harming other forms of life , be inexpensive , and non-corrosive . Unfortunately ideal disinfectants do not exist . All disinfectants are
also , by their very nature , potentially harmful ( even toxic ) to humans or animals . They should be Page 56 of 163