� 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