Major Routes for Disease and Pathogen Transmission in Poultry
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Transfer of birds from one area to another( For instance, transfer of poultry from one farm to another). Dead bird disposal. Dead birds present a risk to the rest of the flock, due to increase of disease agents load at the farm.
Ω Wild birds. Wild birds are likely to be attracted to range areas if they have access to feed, drinking water or surface water. If those attractions are eliminated, wild birds are unlikely to try to mix and compete with the poultry flock. Such birds can carry disease causing agents to birds.
Ω Feral( stray animals) and domestic animals, including other livestock and pets( cats, dogs, etc.).
Ω Insects: These are carriers of disease agents. For example mosquitoes are carriers of fowl pox; darkling beetles are carriers of New castle disease, Bursal disease, Mareks disease, Salmonella, among others. Flies are carriers of Salmonella.
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Rodents- rats / mice. Rodents are carriers of disease agents contaminating feed and litter with Salmonella and fowl cholera. They also cause damage to equipment( electrical wire and plastic water pipes).
Ω Feed may be contaminated by the raw materials used, post-production and during transport, or by exposure to rodents and birds on the property. Bacteria and mould in poor quality or damaged feed may also be a concern. Wet feed permits the development of fungi and molds for example: Aspergillus which causes pneumonia; mycotoxins. These can result into internal hemorrhages, stunted growth and immunosuppression.
Ω Farm personnel and family members living on the project site.
Ω Contractors, maintenance personnel, neighbors, serviceperson and visitors.
Ω Disease can be transmitted by, for example, hands, boots, dirty hair and clothing.
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Transmission as an aerosol or dust. Some pathogens travel in microscopic droplets of moisture / dust and are inhaled. Water: Water supplies may become contaminated with feces from contact with avian or other animals. Contaminated water can be a breeding ground for: Avian Influenza, New Castle Disease, Coliforms, Salmonella and other disease agents.
Ω Water leakage causes wet litter which increases the possible challenge of Coccidiosis. Damages to leg’ s skin allowing penetration of bacteria causing foot pad and joint inflammation.
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