AN ASSIGNMENT ON BIOSECURITY IN PARENT

STOCK LAYER FARM.

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 1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background:

Bangladesh is a land of agriculture. Livestock & poultry sector are the most important part of our
economy. In our country lots of poultry farms have been established for last one decade.

Poultry are considered as important source of protein all over the world. The concept of human
nutrition has taken as a new dimension and today emphasis has been given on the consumption
of high protein and low caloric diet but in reality, shortage of protein specially of animal origin
has been severely affected the health of the people of our country. It is obvious that poultry meat
and eggs contain high quality proteins and can also be produced more economically than any
other source of equivalent quality. Moreover, high multiplication rate of chicken also makes it
more important than any other animal protein source.

There has been tremendous growth in the global poultry industry over the past few decades.
Some regions have reported a dramatic increase in the incidence of infectious disease outbreaks
during this time of rapid expansion. In spite of the difficult challenges that the industry has been
facing, poultry products (meat and eggs) still represent a major part of animal protein consumed
by humans at the global level. .The growth of poultry industry both for egg and meat has been
phenomenal during the last two decades in the developing country in Bangladesh.

In Bangladesh, poultry contributes a major share of animal protein. Here, although natural
condition is favorable bit poultry is mainly produced on back yard subsistence and scavenging
method. More than 80% poultry products of our country contributed by rural or back yard farms.
Presently rural farmers have already started rearing of both egg types (layer) and meat (broiler)
farming commercially. Livestock census in 1989 shows that 0.3 million households representing
74.30% of total poultry population covering 73.3 million poultry birds. This means that per
capita and per family availability of poultry birds are only 0.91 and 5.3 respectively. The
estimated availability of animal protein is as low as 4 gm per head per days against the
requirement of 20 gm (Islam and Ahmed, 1988). Again our people get only 0.48 eggs per week
against 3. Low intake of protein not only affects the physical health but also retards the
development of mental faculty of our children (Islam et al 1988). Poultry farming in Bangladesh
have considerable potentiality for providing employment opportunities for our unemployed and
young people. Poultry farming requires small spaces and less investment and can be operated in
the backyard even in small towns and small farms. Poultry rearing is an old aged practical in
Bangladesh. But unfortunately, farmers do not have sufficient scientific knowledge about poultry
rearing. Every year about 30% of poultry birds die due to attack of various diseases lack of
proper treatment. In addition lack of proper housing, management and care the often die due to
attack of epidemic diseases. This highly sensitive and risk oriented venture needs good scientific
knowledge to run poultry farms satisfactory and profitably. It is possible to increase poultry
production significantly, of technologies like improved breeding, feeding, housing, disease
control, sanitary measures and other improved practices could be used properly.

Poultry birds are one of the most susceptible objects of various kinds of diseases. Being reared
well housing, feeding, breeding, management, a total flock may die to by attack open epidemic
poultry disease causing heavy economic loss of the farmers. Diseases are transmitted to the
poultry farms by various ways. So, it is highly important to prevent and control the poultry
diseases by ensuring fruitful measures in order to prevent transmission of pathogens. Thus bio-
security has become an integral part of any successful poultry production system that reduces the
risk and consequences of introducing an infectious disease. (Simon P.C.M), bio-security means
the procedure that reduces the probability of disease out breaks by controlling potential
introduction of pathogens. The components of bio-security include management and placement
programs, farm lay out, decontamination, pest control and immunization, directly affect
productivity and profitability (Saimon M. Shane). So preventive measures must be practical,
enforceable and cost effective.

1.2 What is bio-security:

The term frequently used when discussing disease control practices is “Bio-security”. The word
itself is a complication of “bio” and “security”. The term “Bio” is from the Greek word “bios”
means life. The definition of “security” means freedom from risk of danger; safety. When
combined together as the term “Bio-security” it roughly translates as life free of risk or in other
words safety for the living. In regard to poultry; the term can be defined as any procedure or
practice which will prevent or limit the exposure of a flock to disease or disease causing
organisms or the overall practices and protocols designed to keep disease off the farm.

Bio-security and quarantine are integral parts of any successful poultry production system. Bio-
security refers to those measures taken to prevent or control the introduction and spread of
infectious agents to a flock. Bio-security is a practice designed to prevent the spread of disease
onto your farm. It is accomplished by maintaining the facility in such a way that there is minimal
traffic of biological organisms (viruses, bacteria, rodents, etc.) across its borders. Bio-security is
the cheapest, most effective means of disease control available. No disease prevention program
will work without it. Such infectious agents, whether they cause clinical or subclinical disease,
significantly reduce the productivity, profitability and long term financial viability of a poultry
operation.

1.4 Objectives:

Considering this facts, the present study was carried out to know the present preventive measures
undertaken by the farmers in order to keep their birds healthy and disease free, so that they can
obtain the maximum profit.

The main objectives of this study were:

 To know the present status of bio-security maintained in parent stock layer farm in
Bangladesh
 To minimize the incidence and spread of microorganisms of public health significance
 To prevent the spread of disease agents from an infected area to an uninfected area
To find out the problem faced by the farmers in relation to standard bio-security practices &
suggest probable solutions.
 2. REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Bio-security is an important criteria to control disease of the farm level in poultry. Major
infectious and vulnerable diseases will spread to the farm due to deficiency of bio-security plan.
2.1 Bio-security:
E.Gilinsky, 2006. Stated that bio-security as it pertains to poultry farms is the protection of
poultry flocks from any type of infectious agent, whether viral, bacterial, fungal, or parasitic in
nature. Due to the number of birds confined in one place, and the speed at which many infectious
agent travel through flocks, outbreaks may have catastrophic results for poultry growers and
processors. Bio-security has three major components, such as:
1. Isolation, 2. Traffic control and 3.Sanitation.
Isolation: refers to the confinement of animals within a controlled environment. Buildings or
fences keep birds in, as well as keep other animals(including humans) out.
Traffic control: includes inter-farm as well as intra-farm vehicle patterns.
Sanitation: is the disinfection of materials, people and equipment entering the farm as well as on
the farm.
Normally bio-security means protecting of birds from the transmissible infectious
microorganisms like viruses, mycoplasma, bacteria and parasites but some people extent its
definition to include non-living threats such as mycotoxins (International Poultry
Journal,2003).
Villarreal et al.,2005 described that the avian influenza high pathogenisity virus was eradicated
in poultry of Mexico in a relatively short period by the use of inactivated emulsified vaccine,
enforcing bio-security & controlling movement of poultry & poultry products. Mexico maintains
a permanent & reliable monitoring program for AI. H5N2 is the only avian influenza subtype
identified. It is possible to control & eradicate the avian influenza low pathogenisity virus mainly
by controlled depopulation of positive poultry, reinforeing bio-security & the use of vaccines.
Hugh Millar,2004.reported that disease agents and pests can be introduced to a poultry farm by
movement of eggs, birds, people, vehicles and equipment between farms, and by clothing,
footwear, aerosols, water, feed, litter, wild birds, biting insects and vermin.
T.Tiensin et al.,2004 reported that several measures were taken after the first isolation of HPAI
virus in January 2004. Initially all poultry, their products, breeding, waste & manure from
infected flocks were destroyed immediately by the veterinary authorities. Culling infected birds
in each flock was completed 1-2 days after the virus was confirmed by virus isolation.
N.L.Tabalante et al.,2000 surveyed that a 10 page questionnaire on bio-security practices was
mailed to 187 growers on the Delmarva peninsula in October 2000. The growers were selected
by three boiler integrators on the basis of flock performance & were classified as cases.
2.2 Basic bio-securities
2.2.1 Buffer distances
Millar H.,2006. Designed a table for detecting the bio-security buffer distance.

Farm type Species Buffer(m)

New farm Fowl/turkey or other avian species 1000

Units in large farm Fowl/turkey or other avian species 200-500

complexes

Farm complexes Fowl/turkey or other avian species >2000

Breeder farms Fowl/turkey or other avian species 2000-5000

Duck or water fowl farm Duck, waterfowl 5000

2.2.2 Site of farm

Uddin M,G. et al.,2007. reported that state farm distance should be minimum 300 meters to
prevent cross transmission of diseases.
Reuters,2006. Reported that a 3km or 2 miles quarantine zone has been set up around the
village try to prevent the spread of diseases.
Blackwall M.,1997. Reported that the farm location should be away from other poultry &
breeders should be sited at least 5 miles from any commercial farms.
2.2.3 Feed & water supply
Helm D.J.,2005. Reported that the feed clean up spills so as to not attract wild birds of rodents &
avoid using pond water, this can spread Avian Influenza if the pond is used by infected
waterfowl.
2.2.4 Litter
Arzey G. et al.,2007. reported that new litter for deep litter during the growth phase of day old &
pullet rearing should be accessed from known, reputable sources & stored in a bird proof
location. Wet & dump litter should removed soon or use ca(0H)2.
Chowdhurey S.D.,2006. Stated that litter should be made infection free & for this the litter
should spray without wetting. The waste litter should be destroyed.
2.2.5 Disinfection & hygiene
T.Milt Nelson.,2004. Suggested that broken or unused equipment & furnishing, dust or fan inlets
& ceiling beams, tiny piece of debris, cracks & joints in broads & dried films of body fluids all
provide places for microbes to hide from the effect of a disinfectant.
Blackwell M.,1997. Reported that effective cleaning & disinfection reduces pathogen number &
the weight of the disease challenge & enhance any bio-security program. It can only achieve with
sufficient turn round down time to allow removal of all litter & to satisfy required contact times
for disinfection product used prior to restocking.
2.2.6 Vaccination
George Arzey,2007 said that professional vaccination crews should have their own bio-security
code, which should be examined by farmer prior to visit. It is essential that vaccination crews do
not visit more than one farm on the same day & that all their equipment is sanitized before the
next job.
2.3 Sources of diseases in poultry facilities:
John B. Carey et al.,2006 reported that;
 Diseases may be introduced by people, employees, service representatives, truck drivers,
vaccination crews, veterinarians, etc.
 They may be transferred via new poultry chicks, pullets, breeding males, semen, etc.
 They may arise from previously contaminated and improperly cleaned premises or
equipment.
 Wild birds, insects, wind, water, etc.
2.4 How diseases spreads among birds:
Human are the most important factors in the transmission of infectious agents of poultry in the
context of modern commercial poultry operations. Pathogen may be carried on shoes, cloths,
caps, hair and hands. Managers and workers are indirectly responsible for the transmission of
pathogens into the farm by mixing sources of chicken or introducing inadequately cleaned
equipment. Transmission of avian pathogens mainly occurred by two ways:
 Biological transmission- occurs when the pathogens multiply in the infected most.
 Mechanical transmission- occurs when carries avian pathogens that survive without
multiplication objects.
2.4.1 Biological transmission:
I. Transovarian transmission: some avian pathogens are disseminated exclusively by
transovarial transmission also occurs among pathogens readily transmitted by contact.
Examples include Mycoplasma gallisepticum, M. synoviae, reoviruses, salmonella
gallinarum, salmonella pullorum, EDS viruses. These agents are transmitted from parents
to offspring through the egg over prolonged periods.
II. Mixing sources of birds: when birds of different source or ages are mixed, there is an
opportunity for the spread disease. Infected carries may appear and still be capable of
transmitting avian pathogens to susceptible contacts. Birds can transmit infectious agents
for long periods after recovery.
III. Wild birds: contact between domestic and wild birds may serve as a common source of
infection. Influenza virus and pasteurella multocida (fowl cholera) can be transmitted by
direct/indirect contact.
IV. Vermin: rodents are common carries of S. typhimurium and S. enteritidis. Raccons &
oppossums have been incriminated in transmitting Pasteurella multocida.
V. Insects: some avian pathogens replicate in insects for part of their life cycle. e.g.
leucocytozzon sp. Complete one part of life cycle in insects and other part in chicken
host.
VI. Helminthes and other vertebrates: earthworms serve as transport host for the eggs of
the caecal round worm. Tape worms that affect poultry have a specific in vertebrate host
such as earthworms, tape worms, house flies, beetles, snails, dung beetles and ants.
VII. Humans: zoonotic avian infection transmitted from avian species includes NCD,
influenza, salmonellosis, T.B. etc.

2.4.2 Mechanical transmission:

 Insect (biting insect, mosquitoes and ticks) transmits fowl pox, pasteurella etc.
 Feed- is a major source of paratyphoid.
 Hatchery contamination can be source of bacteria & other organisms.
 Humans dead birds, etc also are major source of avian pathogen.
In addition air born transmission also possible. It is likely that transmission occurs between
adjacent houses.
In short spreads of poultry diseases mainly occur by-
 Movement of poultry, people , vehicles & equipments between and within farms.
 Introduction of birds of low or unknown health status.
 Contact with neighbor flocks.
 Contact with vermin & wild birds.
 Contamination of food and water.
 Unsatisfactory cleaning and disinfection of vehicles, shades feeding trough and other
equipment. (Defra,1886).
 1 2 3

5 4

1. Presence of patient/ carrier.

2. Casual agent be able to leave the body of infected host.

3. Must survive outside body of host.

4. Be taken to vicinity of farm/ house.

5. Presence of susceptible host to allow entry and multiplication of the organism

(pathogens). (M.M.Amin 1999).

DISCUSSIONS
4.1 Bio-security has three major components:

1. Isolation
2. Traffic Control
3. Sanitation

Isolation refers to the confinement of animals within a controlled environment. A fence keeps
your birds in, but it also keeps other animals out. Isolation also applies to the practice of
separating birds by age group. In large poultry operations, all-in/all-out management styles allow
simultaneous depopulation of facilities between flocks and allow time for periodic clean-up and
disinfection to break the cycle of disease.

Traffic Control includes both the traffic onto your farm and the traffic patterns within the farm.

Sanitation addresses the disinfection of materials, people and equipment entering the farm and
the cleanliness of the personnel on the farm.

4.2 Types of bio-security:

1. Conceptual bio-security

2. Structural bio-security

3. Operational bio-security

4.2.1 Conceptual Bio-security:

The primary level represents the basis of all programs to prevent disease.

 Conceptual bio-security includes selecting the location of a complex or operation in a

specific area to separate different types of poultry, reduce bio-density and avoid
contact with free-living birds.

 Sitting of farms in relation to public roads and service facilities such as hatcheries,
feed mills and processing plants has a profound impact on the effectiveness of a
program to maintain optimal standards of production.

 Decisions concerning conceptual bio-security influence all other activities relating to

prevention and control of disease.
  Generally, defects in conceptual bio-security cannot be changed in response to the
emergence of new diseases, which may results in severe losses or even failure of the
enterprise.

Considered the following:

 Build in an isolated area at least 5km away from commercial farms, 3-5km from
parents stock and 30 km from grant parents stock farm.

 ND, IB, ILT is proven that can be transmitted up to 5km by wind with the dust
particles.

 Build the farm away from any major road way, market or other busy places, garbage,
dumping ground, sewerages, etc.

 Build the farm away of waterways, ponds or lakes used by migratory water fowl. Wild
birds and animals should not have the opportunity to enter into the poultry house.

4.2.2 Structural bio-security:

 Construct the shed in East-West direction to avoid direct sunlight.

 Farm service module comprising an office, storage and change room-shower

facilities.

 Entry of personnel into each age group should be through a shower module
require a complete change of clothing.

 Rigid separation of the outer potentially “contaminated side” and the inner high
security house should be maintained.

 Construct the building so that they can be easily cleaned.

 Suitable water and power supply to permit decontamination vehicles entering

the farm.

 All weather roads within secured perimeter to facilitate cleaning and to prevent
dissemination of disease agents by vehicles and footwear.

 Appropriate location of secure vermin free storage areas for bagged feed.
  Installations for disposal of dead birds.

 Impervious apron adjacent to the door of each house.

 Provide good concrete floor for easy and proper cleaning.

 Available proper watering systems to prevent fungal growth.

 Provide proper curtains to protect the flock from extreme climatic conditions
and rain water entry.

 Erect fences around the farm with secured gates. All opening into the building
should be screened to prevent access of free flying birds, rodents and other wild
life.

 Metal personnel doors and installation of wire mesh screens over windows are
recommended.

 Provide good lighting systems.

 Adopt proper measures of ventilation.

 Construct proper drainage systems.

4.2.3 Operational Bio-security Measures:

Bio-security and animals:

 Farm placement on an “all in-all out cycle”. Multiple age chickens on the same site act as
a reservoir disease organisms.

 Resting period between flocks should be enough to reduce the contamination and to
increase the effectiveness of the disinfection.

 Avoid any vegetation growth around houses.

 Equipment, building materials, etc should be stored away of the farm or in special
location.

 Clean up feed spills immediately. Silos should be tightly closed. Unused feed should be
disposed properly.
  Store litter materials in bags or inside as storage building.

 Store nest materials in bags.

 Keep wild birds out of all buildings and feed mills.

 Dogs and cats should be excluded from the farm areas.

 Dairy and beef out allowed in the farm.

 Prompt and secured disposal of dead birds.

4.3 Sources of diseases enter in commercial broiler farm:

Poultry/New Animals

 Birds that have died from a disease should be properly disposed off by approved methods
such as incineration, composting, rendering, etc.
 It is always prudent to routinely remove dead birds quickly from a poultry house to
prevent disease spread via cannibalism of the carcass.
 It is also important to have no other avian (bird) species on the poultry farm. However,
most poultry farms have other livestock on then such as cattle.
 The movement of these animals may be a routine occurrence on many poultry farms as
these animals are moved to and from exhibitions, sales, auctions, etc, or new animals are
obtained to infuse new genetics or bloodlines.
 It is important that Bio-security protocols be followed for these animals since a disease
could be introduced to the farm that although it may not infect the poultry present it could
result in a quarantine of the poultry or restricted movement until the disease has been
controlled in the other animals.
 A few Bio-security principles to be aware of for other animal are listed below:

1. Always purchase new animals from sources where the health and disease status are known.

2 Appropriate screening tests (as determined by your livestock veterinarian or extension

specialist) can help limit the addition of animals with some infectious diseases. However,
remember that tests are only one tool in the fight against disease.

3. It is also important to remember that an animal may be carrying a disease and not exhibiting
any symptoms. Therefore, all new animals should be quarantined for a period of time after they
are purchased. The quarantine should be at the very least 3-4 weeks (most acute type diseases
will become visible within this time frame) . During this quarantine period the animals should be
carefully observed for any clinical symptoms that are not normal. In addition, other tests can be
performed that were not part of the initial screening and any animal that does become ill can be
treated appropriately or removed.

4. Any returning animal should also go through the quarantine since they may have been exposed
to other animals or diseases. The quarantine area should be isolated away from the other farm
animals and the animals in the quarantine should be checked daily after all other on farm animals
to minimize inadvertent transmission. It is important to wear different clothing, such as coveralls
and rubber or disposable boots, when caring for the quarantined animals. In addition, all wastes
from the quarantined animals should be isolated from the non-quarantined animals and any feed
or water sources. All equipment used with the quarantined animals should be thoroughly cleaned
and disinfected before using it with other animals. This includes any equipment utilized in
bringing the animals to the farm and any used with the animals while in quarantine.

5. Another important aspect to consider is the disease resistance status of the animals; both the
new additions and those already on the farm. It is important to have a vaccination program in
place for diseases that are most likely to affect your animals. This vaccination program works
best if it is customized to your farm.

6. Parasite control and/or preventative measures are also an important aspect of the animal’s
immune system.

7. A sound nutritional program will promote overall health and allow an animal to better respond
to antibiotic therapy and vaccinations.

8. Finally, the influence of stress cannot be overlooked; any environment that reduces stress will
promote health.

Traffic (People, vehicles, equipment).

 The second single greatest threat to Bio-security is from traffic to and from the farm
(people, vehicles, and equipment) which may inadvertently carry a disease organism onto
the farm. Visitors to farms are unfortunately a necessary part of operating a farm; these
visitors can be veterinarians, livestock specialists, family members, other livestock
owners, utility personnel etc. Therefore, it is necessary to restrict access to only necessary
authorized personnel.
 All visitors can be grouped into one of three categories: minimal or low risk, moderate
risk, and high risk. Low risk visitors are those that rarely visit a farm and have had no
contact with poultry (such as those from city and/or urban areas) As such they present a
minimal risk of introducing disease.
 Moderate risk visitors are those that routinely visit farms but have no or only occasional
contact with livestock. This category of visitors includes individuals such as feed delivery
personnel, utility personnel, and farm salespersons.
 High risk visitors are those that routinely visit farms and have direct close contact with
livestock.
 Minimal Bio-security measures for all three categories include:
a) No contact with farm livestock unless absolutely necessary,
b) Parking of vehicles away from the production area of the farm on a paved, gravel, or
concrete area and
c) Washing of their hands before and after entering the premises.
 Low risk visitors should practice the minimal security measures and not bring off farm
foods to the farm or enter areas where contact with livestock could occur. You may wish
to ask them to wear coveralls to prevent contamination of their clothing.
 Moderate risk visitors should wear coveralls and boots if there will be any contact with
animals, animal wastes, feeds, pens, and or equipment in addition to the same things as
low risk visitors. Additionally, they should and clean and disinfect their boots and
equipment before leaving.
 High risk visitors are the greatest risk and should practice all the minimal measures of
Bio-security and all those things done by low and moderate risk visitors plus other
additional precautions.
 These additional precautions include putting on clean boots and coveralls before entering
the farm, using disposable supplies as possible or cleaning and disinfecting all equipment
before bringing it on the farm, and cleaning and thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting
when leaving the farm.
 It is important to not only restrict visitors but on farm caretakers should also be cognizant
not the possibility of disease spread via daily on farm movement.
 A traffic flow pattern should be established so that the youngest birds are checked first.
Clean clothing (coveralls) and boots that can be disposed of or adequately disinfected
should be provided for all personnel entering the poultry farm.
 If possible a log should be maintained so that personnel, vehicle, and equipment can be
tracked as to when, who, and why.
 A footbath containing a disinfectant may help reduce tracking of organisms via footwear.
 It is important to remember to change out the disinfectant footbath when it becomes dirty
and in accordance with label directions.
 Also remember that cleaning of rubber boots and/or other footwear before disinfecting is
advisable since most disinfectants will be rendered useless by large amounts of organic
matter such as litter or fecal material.
 Ideally, there should be only on farm entrance that can be gated or closed off to
discourage and prevent visitors and traffic.
 Vehicles should not be allowed on the farm unless absolutely necessary. All vehicles
should be parked on an area of concrete, asphalt, etc. so the wheels and undercarriage can
be properly cleaned and disinfected and there is minimal contact with dirt, mud, farm
drainage, and/or animal wastes. If this is not possible at least park on an area of grass.
  Ideally, all vehicles should be cleaned and disinfected before arrival at and upon leaving
a farm. Additionally, some type of insecticidal spray should be used in the vehicle before
leaving.
 Farm equipment should not be loaned to other farms if at all possible. If this is not
possible the equipment should be thoroughly cleaned and properly disinfected before
returning to the farm or use with other animals. All supplies that are non-disposable
should be cleaned and disinfected after each animal. Another important point about
traffic (both vehicular and personnel) is traffic flow patterns. It is always best (because of
differences in immunity and susceptibility) to visit the youngest animals first then
progress age-wise to the oldest.
 All quarantined and/or sick animals should be checked last.
Vermin
 All poultry houses should be constructed with wire small enough to prevent wild birds
and animals from entering the house. They should be checked and repaired as needed.
Since rodents contaminate and consume feed and water, spread many diseases, and
destroy and/or damage equipment all poultry buildings should be rodent proofed.
 In addition, the area around a poultry house and farm should be cleaned to prevent rodent
infestation and all spilled feed should be cleared away as soon as possible. A baiting
program should also be implemented on the poultry farm.
 Litter and manure beetles can act as disease reservoirs and also damage poultry house
insulation and wooden structures; flies can also spread disease and can be a nuisance on
the farm or to neighbors.
 Approved pesticide application programs will help reduce the number of beetles and
flies.
 In addition, maintaining litter in dry condition and repair or water leaks in and around the
house is also helpful.
Inanimate objects
 Inanimate objects used on the farm should be thoroughly washed and disinfected after
use.
 All feed and water systems should be cleaned and disinfected on a regular schedule.
 Do not bring home and use anything from another poultry farm or area where other avian
species are kept without cleaning and disinfecting it first or better yet do not bring on the
farm under any circumstance.

Contaminated Water, Feed, and Air

 It is important to not use water that is possibly contaminated. Chlorination of water and
cleaning of water systems will assist in the prevention of disease.
 Do not water poultry from outside sources such as a pond without proper disinfection of
the water.
  Ponds can be contaminated from wild birds with numerous pathogens (such as the Avian
Influenza virus).
 Air borne pathogens are more difficult to prevent since poultry do need ventilation to
reduce humidity, ammonia, dust, and heat. Location of the house as far as possible from
other poultry farms does assist in prevention of airborne disease.
 A location that is not downwind of another poultry house or other livestock operation can
prevent contamination via dust.

Footbaths

 The use of a footbath should also be considered as part of the farm Bio-security plan.
 The footbath should be in a suitable container that is water tight and large enough to
allow at least one foot to be placed entirely in it.
 The footbath is far more effective if there is some means to remove debris from the
footwear before use of the footbath since many disinfectants are rendered ineffective if
contaminated with organic matter such as manure.
 It is important to be sure and locates the footbath where it is easily accessible and
practical for use.
 It is best to have a footbath at the entrance to each pen, or building.
 Unfortunately, these locations are seldom practical or utilizable; therefore, locate the
footbath where traffic will be from the outside and in areas where the most susceptible
animals are located.

4.4 Routes that the pathogens may enter in commercial Poultry farm:
 Movement of poultry, people, vehicles and equipment between and within farms.
 Introduction of birds of low or unknown health status.
 Contact with neighbors’ flocks.
 Using shared farm equipment and vehicles which have not been effectively cleansed and
disinfected.
 Contact with vermin and wild birds.
 Birds drinking from contaminated water sources
 Unsatisfactory cleaning and disinfection of vehicles, sheds, feeding troughs and other
equipment
 Airborne transmission
 Carrier birds within a flock
 Birds in hospital/cull pen in a poultry house
 Birds recently obtained from an outside flock
 Forced-molted hens
 Eggs from infected breeder flocks
  Backyard, pet fowl and wild birds
 Pet animals, rodents and insects
 Live-bird markets
 Contaminated feed and water and
 Contaminated vaccine

4.5 Levels of Bio-security

Level 1 - Routine Bio-security Procedures

These procedures should be implemented and followed on a daily basis.  They give a high degree
of assurance that diseases and pathogens will not be carried into poultry production areas and
will reduce the risk of transmission between production areas.  These should be seen as a
minimum requirement.

1 Documentation and Training

 Each production facility must keep a copy of the National Farm Bio-security Manual (the
manual), or a more detailed document that encompasses the National Farm Bio-security
Manual, that is readily accessible to staff.

 1.2Staff must be provided with training in the relevant parts of the manual and such
training is to be recorded.

2. Facility Standards
 The production area must have a perimeter fence or otherwise well defined boundary
(e.g. creek, vegetation) establishing a clearly defined bio-security zone.

 If livestock graze the property then the production area must have a stock proof fence.
Grazing near sheds (i.e. on part of the production area as defined in this manual) is only
permitted where the grazing area is separated by a stock proof barrier from the area used
by poultry, effectively preventing transmission of contaminants from grazing livestock to
poultry, and the grazing area is not used for access to other parts of the production area.
Drainage from livestock pastures or holding areas must not enter poultry enclosures or
areas that can be accessed by poultry (e.g. through fences).

 A sketch or map of the layout of the property, showing the production area, sheds,
ranges, access roads and gates must be created and kept up-to-date.

 The main entrance to the production area must be capable of being closed to vehicle
traffic (e.g. lockable gate which, where feasible, should be kept locked at all times) and
must display appropriate signage including Bio-security Area No Entry Unless
 Authorized or similar wording. In addition, signage must direct visitors to contact the
producer before proceeding i.e. telephone number and/or enquire at house.

 There must be a parking area for vehicles not entering the production area. There must be
a change area away from sheds with clean protective clothing and boots provided.

 Entry to sheds must only be made through entrances with a footbath containing a suitable
disinfectant used in accordance with company or manufacturer’s instructions and
changed on a regular basis. There must be provision for scraping the soles of boots before
dipping to ensure the sanitizer makes contact with the soles of the boots. An alternative
system using separate production area and shed footwear may be used. Facilities for hand
sanitation must also be placed at the entry to each shed.

 Dead bird disposal method must conform to applicable environmental compliance

requirements incineration with after burner. All poultry housing must be designed and
maintained so as to prevent the entry of wild birds and limit the access of vermin as far as
is practical. 2.9 Landscape – trees and shrubs should be selected to minimize wild bird
attraction, particularly in free-range operations. The area around sheds must be kept free
from debris and vegetation should be mown regularly. Vegetation buffers for
environmental compliance should not be compromised. Trees may be used as shelter
belts, along fence lines and on free range premises (including ratites) to provide shade
and protect birds from harsh weather conditions.

 Drainage – the production area should be adequately drained to prevent accumulation and
stagnation of water likely to attract water fowl, especially in the areas around sheds and
range areas. 2.11 An appropriate vermin control plan must be developed and
implemented, including rodents, foxes, and wild dogs and cats.

 A baiting program for rodents must be implemented where a risk assessment deems this
necessary (e.g. live rodents, droppings, nests). Such a baiting program must include the
following features:

a. Bait stations must be numbered and a map kept of their location.

b. Bait stations must be placed at regular intervals around the sheds. The number of bait
stations should be increased in areas where there are signs of increased rodent activity.

c. Bait stations must be designed to minimize the opportunity for other mammals and birds
to access the bait. 2.13 Drinking water for poultry, as well as cooling water used in
poultry sheds, must meet appropriate water standards. Water that does not meet the
 standard must be treated (e.g. chlorination, ultraviolet, iodine) to ensure that the standard
is met.

 All surface water (dam, river etc.) must be treated before being used as drinking water for
poultry.

 Treated water supply must be kept in a closed system from the point of treatment to the
drinker

 Sheep and other domestic stock must not have access to the production area at any time
except under the specific condition .Dogs and cats must not enter sheds unless dogs are
part of the flock security strategy.

 Only commercially produced avian species are to be kept in the production area and no
other avian species (including aviary birds and pet birds) or pigs are to be kept on the
property.

 If more than one commercially produced avian species is kept in the production area, the
species should be housed and managed separately, with suitable bio-security
arrangements for each species. Shared equipment should be cleaned and disinfected
between uses. Despite this general requirement, emus and ostriches may be farmed
together.

 Feeding systems must wherever possible be closed to ensure that feed in silos and feed
delivery systems are protected from access and contamination by wild birds and rodents.
Feed spills should be cleaned up without delay to prevent the congregation of wild birds.

 Where bird weighing is practiced, it must be carried out using the production area’s own
weighing frames and scales. Company service personnel can use their own scales
provided they are cleaned and disinfected when moved between production areas.

3. Personnel Standards and Procedures

Production Personnel
 Production area personnel or any person residing on the property must not have contact
with any other poultry, cage birds, racing pigeons or pigs unless they have a complete
head-to-toe shower and change into new protective footwear and clothing prior to
entering the production area.

 Production area personnel must wear laundered clean clothes each day at the
commencement of their work. Personnel must ensure that they do not become
contaminated by contact with avian species or pigs on their way to work. It is critical that
 boots worn in sheds are not worn or taken outside the production area. They are the most
likely method for disease spread by personnel.

Company Service Personnel

 Company service personnel by necessity make multiple production area visits on a single
day. Protective clothing and footwear, as approved by the production facility manager,
should be worn in the production area. Hands must be sanitized before entering sheds.

 Visits should always be made from ‘clean’ areas i.e. home, younger or healthy production
area. In an emergency, visits may be made from production areas with lower standards of
bio-security after a shower and complete change of clothing.

Repair and maintenance

 Repair and maintenance contractors who have had contact with poultry or other birds that
day or keep birds at their home must not enter sheds and/or ranges populated or ready to
be populated with birds unless (a) it is an emergency and (b) they have showered from
head-to-toe and changed clothes and boots and wear a hair covering.

 Routine maintenance should be conducted, where possible, between batches prior to final
disinfection where a batch system is practiced.

 Tools taken into the production area must be cleaned before entry into sheds and must be
free of dust and organic matter.

Contractors, Suppliers, Other Service Personnel and Visitors

Conditions of entry to poultry sheds and poultry ranges – all personnel (other than those farm
personnel covered by the Personnel Quarantine Declaration must agree to comply with the entry
conditions as stipulated in (which must be displayed prominently near the visitors’ log) by
signing the visitors’ log and such visits must be approved by the Manager before visitors may
enter sheds and ranges. This requirement also applies to vaccination crews.

Visitors’ log – a record must be kept of all visitors (non-production area staff) to the poultry
sheds and poultry ranges including company personnel regarding details to be recorded and a
possible format).

Any authorized visitor, including neighbors, friends, other producers or equipment suppliers,
likely to have been exposed that day to poultry, other birds or pigs must not enter the sheds
unless they have had a head-to-toe shower and changed clothes and boots or must limit their visit
to the property’s residence while wearing clean clothes.
All visitors should park their vehicles outside the production area unless it is essential that the
vehicle be taken on site e.g. some maintenance contractors. Visitors entering shed or ranges must
complete and sign the visitors’ log.

Requirements for Specified Movements

 Pick up of poultry – pick-up crews should work from youngest to oldest or all
young birds or all old birds on a shift basis in accordance with the processing
company’s pick up bio-security procedures. Pick-up crews must not keep birds at
their home.

 Day-old chick delivery – trucks and dollies must be cleaned and disinfected each
day and between properties not owned/operated by the same entity. Drivers must
sanitize their hands and boots before and after each delivery to a production area.

 Litter delivery and collection of used litter – trucks carrying new or old litter must
be cleaned and disinfected between production areas.

 Other deliveries (e.g. gas and feed drivers) – drivers must not enter sheds and thus
are not required to sign the visitors’ log.

 There must be a system for tracing movements of delivery personnel (e.g. through
delivery dockets and feed company records).

Entry Procedures for Bird Sheds and Ranges

Any person entering sheds must sanities hands and use footbaths (unless separate shed boots are
being used) before entering each shed.

 Soles of boots must be scraped before disinfecting in the footbaths.

 A hand sanitizer must be available at all shed entrances and must be used before entering.

 Facilities should be available for the cleaning and disinfection of equipment before entry.

4. Operational Standards
Water Supply
The use of a suitably treated water supply is critical to achieving good bio-security. In general,
water with a high level of organic matter is unsuitable for chlorination alone, while ultraviolet
treatment is of little use for turbid water. It may be necessary to seek expert advice to ensure a
safe water supply. Effective treatment of surface water to reduce contamination is essential but
complex. The water treatment process should be monitored regularly.
  For a chlorinated water supply the treatment must achieve a level of 1.0 – 2.0 ppm free
available chlorine (FAC) at the point of use.

 When chlorinating water, there must be a minimum of 2 hours contact time between
chlorine and water prior to use.

 Testing must be conducted and recorded daily and a maintenance program needs to be in
place.

 The effectiveness of water treatment systems, including alternative systems (e.g.

ultraviolet), must be validated before use and treatment systems require a program of
maintenance and monitoring to ensure effectiveness. Production area records able to
demonstrate the effectiveness of water treatment must be kept. Microbiological validation
of the efficacy of the treatment system must be carried out at least annually.

 Drinking water quality must be maintained at a standard suitable for use in livestock

 Guidelines regarding the treatment of surface water are available in

Vermin Baiting
 Bait stations must be checked weekly and fresh baits lay as required.

 A record should be kept of each inspection and vermin activity noted

Cleaning and Ground Maintenance

 Feed spills must be cleaned up as soon as practicable. Feed attracts birds and rodents to
the production area.

 Grass on and around the production area must be kept cut – long grass attracts rodents
and favors the survival of viruses and bacteria.

 Footbaths must be inspected daily (e.g. for excessive organic matter) and the contents
replaced as required to achieve an adequate concentration of suitable disinfectant
according to company or manufacturer’s recommendations.

 On free-range production sites

a) manure deposits outside the hatch openings must be removed after each batch
b) ramps to free range area must be scraped and cleaned after each batch.
  The production area must be adequately drained to prevent accumulation and stagnation
of water, especially in the areas around sheds and range areas Record Keeping

 Bird mortality must be recorded on a regular basis to assist monitoring for any unusual
animal health problems potentially indicating a bio-security breach.

 A record of bird movements must be maintained to facilitate tracing in case of an animal

health or food safety concern.

End of Batch Procedures

This section applies specifically to those production areas that run a batch operation, such as
meat chicken production areas.

 After final pick-up the shed doors must be kept closed except during litter removal. After
washing and disinfecting, shed doors must be kept closed. If drying is a problem ventilate
using fans or bird wire screens in shed doorways. Wild birds must be kept out after
disinfection.

 Litter and manure must not be stockpiled in the production area . Litter and manure must
be stored in an appropriately designed storage area, off the production area, with
sufficient buffering zone from the bird sheds and enclosures.

5. Species Specific Additional Bio-security Requirements

Any additional requirements that must be followed by all those producing a particular species of
poultry should be added here.

Level 2 - High Risk Bio-security Procedures

1. Action Plan for Suspected Emergency Animal Disease

Each owner must establish and document clear guidelines regarding the circumstances when an
emergency animal disease alert should be raised (e.g. an unusual increase in mortality or drop in
production), and who must be informed. The action plan must also clearly state that, if an alert is
raised, movement of birds must cease immediately, other movements on and off the production
area and the property must be limited to the absolute minimum, and special precautions must be
taken as outlined in the section Level 2 – High Risk Bio-security Procedures.

2. Facilities
 Gates must be kept locked.

 Shed doors must be locked at night.

  Facilities for the cleaning and disinfection of equipment coming on and off the
production area must be in place.

3. Personnel
 No visitors are to enter the production area unless absolutely essential. Company
personnel will discontinue routine visits except on suspicion of problems.

 Repairs and maintenance – no routine work, only emergency work to be carried out

4. Operational
 Essential visits – head-to-toe shower before and after visit. A complete change of clothes,
footwear, hair covering and breathing protection is required. Used clothing and all used
personal protection equipment must remain on the property.

 Any vehicle which must enter the property must be washed and disinfected at the wash
pad before and after going onto the property (e.g. feed trucks, gas). Vehicle driver cabins
must also be sanitized inside.

 No birds or litter to be moved on or off properties until disease status is clarified.

 If a major outbreak should occur, further measures will be stipulated by the processor
and/or the state’s Chief Veterinary Officer.

5. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

Standard operating procedures will be available for any specific outbreak of an emergency
animal disease.

Signs of poor bio-security -torn shoe cover & leaking drinkers

Signs of poor bio-security-broken fans & mortality not promptly removed

Fig. sign of good bio-security-footbath and quarantine area

Fig. disinfectant of a car. Fig. disinfectant of shed.

4.6.1 Some common disinfectants that use in commercial broiler farm:

 Phenols.
 Hypochlorite (chlorine).
 Iodophors (iodine).
 Quaternary ammonium compound (QAC).
 Formaldehyde gas.
 Formaldehyde powder.
  Alkali (lye).
 Chlorhexidine (Nolvasan).
 Cresols

4.6.2 The most common disinfectants are used in commercial broiler farm:

Phenols: Phenols are coal-tar derivatives. They have a characteristic pine-tar odor and turn
milky in water. Phenols are effective antibacterial agents, and they are also effective against
fungi and many viruses. They also retain more activity in the presence of organic material that
iodine or chlorine-containing disinfectants. In commercial poultry operations, phenols are used
for egg dipping, hatchery and equipment sanitation, and footbaths. Examples of the phenol class
include: Lysol, Pine-Sol, Cresi-400, Environ, and Tek-Trol Phenols are usually applied in
solution containing 1to 2% of the active ingredients.

Iodophors:

Iodine compounds are available as iodophors, which are combinations of elemental iodine and a
substance that makes the iodine soluble in water. They are good disinfectants, but they do not
work well in the presence of organic material–that is, on dirty surfaces. Iodophors are effective
against bacteria, fungi, and many viruses.
In hatcheries, iodine is used on equipment and walls and for water disinfection. Iodine is the least
toxic of the disinfectants discussed here, but it can stain clothing and some surfaces. Examples of
the iodophor class include: Betadine, Iofec, Isodyne, Losan, Tamed Iodine, and Weladol.
Commercial formulation s contains an organic iodine complex(20%),phosphoric acid(up
to15%),builders(2%) and inert ingredients(to 100%).When use at 100 to500ppm,iodophors are
effective in hatcheries for decontamination of smooth surfaces and equipment.

Hypochlorite’s:
Chlorine compounds are good disinfectants on clean surfaces, but they do not work well on dirty
surfaces. Chlorine is effective against bacteria and many viruses. These compounds are also
much more active in warm water than in cold water. Chlorine solutions are somewhat irritating
to skin and are corrosive to metal. They are relatively inexpensive. Examples of the hypochlorite
class include: Clorox, Chloramine-T, & Halazone.

Quaternary Ammonium compound (QAC):

Quaternary ammonium compounds are generally odorless, colorless, non-irritating, and
deodorizing. They also have some detergent action, and they are good disinfectants. However,
they are inactivated in the presence of some soaps or soap residues. Their antibacterial activity is
reduced in the presence of organic material. Quaternary ammonium compounds are effective
against bacteria and somewhat effective against fungi and viruses. These compounds are used
widely in commercial hatcheries.
Examples of the quaternary ammonium class include: Roccal, Germex, Hi-Lethol, San-O-Fec,
Warden, and Zephiran . The use level of QAC ranges from 100 to 500ppm up to 1500ppm
(containing 15 to 18% active ingredients.

Formalin:
Formalin marketed as a 37% concentrate once was used extensively in the poultry as a surface
disinfectant at an application rate of 2%.When formalin mixed with potassium permanganate(1g
potassium permanganate to 2ml formalin),formaldehyde gas is generated as a fumigant to be
used to confined space under controlled conditions. Formalin is the most effective at a
temperature above 20c and at a relative humidity above 60%.

Benefit from Good bio-security:

• Helps keep out exotic poultry diseases such as avian influenza and Newcastle Disease.
• Reduces the risk of zoonotic diseases such as salmonella becoming established;
• Limits the occurrence and spread of diseases and helps to protect neighbors, public health and
the countryside.
• Improves overall flock health; and
• Cuts costs of disease treatment; and reduces losses, which could
Improve farm profitability.

PROBLEMS, SOLUTION & LIMITATIONS

5.1 Problems:

 Lack of knowledge: Most of the farmers having lack of knowledge. For this they are
facing problems in poultry rearing.
 Lack of extension services: Extension services of Govt. & NGO are not well enough.
  Lack of willingness: Farmers also are not motivating themselves for good bio-security
practices.
 Lack of communication: Communication was not well enough to maintain good bio-
security practices.
 Lack of skills: Due to lack of knowledge skills were not also developing.
 Lack of experienced manpower: Due to lack of knowledge & skills there are sort of
experienced manpower.

5.2 Solution:

The problems that are occurring due to lack of bio-security can be solved by the following
possible ways.

5.2.1 Prevention of Disease Transmission in Commercial broiler farm:

 Don't bring infection onto your farm, or spread it around your farm, on your clothes,
footwear or hands. Clean overalls and footwear must be worn when entering poultry
farms. Protective clothing and footwear should be removed and either cleansed and
disinfected, laundered or disposed of after use.
 Strictly limit and control access to poultry flocks. If possible the site should be fenced
with a controlled entry point. Visitors and their vehicles should be limited and as far as
possible kept away from poultry buildings and pastures.
 Have pressure washers, brushes, hoses, water and an approved disinfectant available.
Make sure they are used by visitors to clean vehicles, equipment and boots.
 Keep farm access routes, parking areas, yards, areas around buildings and storage areas
clean and tidy and well maintained. This helps avoid wild birds and animals being
attracted onto the site and entering buildings and stores.
 Wild birds can carry poultry diseases. Minimize contact between poultry and wild birds.
Prevent accumulation of standing water and remove spilled feed that could attract wild
birds. Maintain buildings to ensure that wild birds do not nest or roost in them.
 Keep wild birds, dogs, cats, rodents or other livestock out of poultry buildings and feed
stores.
 Have an active rodent and pest control system in place. Be vigilant for evidence of
vermin. Monitor vermin activity by baiting and trapping.
 Supply only clean fresh drinking water to birds. Water lines and drinkers must be flushed
through and cleaned regularly. In the case of free-range birds restrict access to possible
sources of standing water used by wild birds.
 Feed bins, hoppers and feeding equipment must be cleaned and maintained regularly.
Feed silos and containers must be sealed to prevent animals and wild birds contaminating
feed.
  Feed should only be obtained from a mill or supplier that operates in accordance with
relevant Defra and UKASTA Codes of Practice who will make available results of
salmonella tests on request.
 Damaged eggs, dead birds, litter and manure may carry disease. Dispose of them
promptly and properly.
 Clean and disinfect all vehicles after each journey. If possible, do not use the same
vehicles for transporting birds, feed, manure or other wastes.
 Regularly clean and disinfect all crates, containers and other equipment before and after
use. Do not move any equipment into different poultry buildings without cleaning and
disinfecting it first. This also applies to injecting and dosing equipment.
 At depopulation at the end of a cycle, thoroughly clean the building and all equipment,
including ducting, drains and fans. Remove all surplus feed, dead birds and litter.
Disinfect the premises and all equipment and carry out rodent and other pest control.
Cleaning equipment and protective clothing should also be cleaned and disinfected.

5.2.2 Bio-security and rodent control:

 Rodents are major vectors and reservoir for Salmonella spp.

 Infection dose for mice is less than 15 Salmonella organisms.

 After that it can excrete >200.000 organisms/pellet.

 Only one mice can infect the whole colony.

 Rodents also act as mechanical carrier of other diseases between houses and/or between
farms.

5.2.3Biosecurity and pest control:

 Insect vectors (flies, beetles, ants, cockroaches) can transmit a number of pathogens
(IBD, Mareks, Reo, Salmonella) and they can also damage the structure of buildings.

 Darkling beetles (Alphitobious diaperinus) are found to carry over 5 different serotypes
of Salmonella and can shed Salmonella in their droppings for up to 28 days.

 Beetles and flies can fly more than 2km and act as mechanical carriers of diseases.

 Apply an organophosphorus type insecticide immediately after depopulation while the

house is still warm and before the litter has been removed.
  Spray over the litter and the lower part of the walls up to 1m height.

 At this time you will be able to catch the beetles before they migrate to hide in the
structure of the building.

 3 days prior the flock arrival spray on all surfaces a residual insecticide.

 When the new litter is put down, spray again with a larvicidal insecticide.

5.2.4 Bio-security and Equipments:

 Do not share equipment with neighbor.

 If absolutely needed, wash and disinfect the equipments before and after using.

 Keep working area clean and net. Wash and disinfect equipments and areas once the
eggs/birds are out(incubators, pens, cages, etc).

Removal of equipment:

 Remove residual food feeders and silos.

 Remove dust.

 Blow down and/or brush the dust from all surfaces from the ceiling, water pipes, fans,
inlets, beams, curtains.

 Low pressure sprayer with detergent to dampen down dust from litter and equipment;

 Removal equipment: nests, perches, dividing pens, feeders, drinkers, heaters etc. Place
them on an external concrete area.

Litter disposal: At least 2km away from the farm, spread on crop land and plow in quickly, bury,
stack and allow heating for 1 month or incinerating. Respect local regulations.

5.2.5 Steps should be taken to increase the bio-security of their flocks:

Keep Visitors to a Minimum

Human transportation of microorganisms is one of the more serious threats to bio-security.

Restriction of unnecessary human traffic is a major component of a sound program. Growers
should restrict visitors and make sure that any visitor to their farm has a good reason to be there.
Growers should provide protective covering such as boots, coveralls, and headgear to any
visitors that work with, or have had recent contact with poultry. This would include friends,
neighbors, relatives, equipment and utility service personnel. Visitors should never enter poultry
houses unless approved by the grower or company personnel. Traffic through poultry houses
should always flow from younger to older birds.

One useful measure is keeping records of Visitors that have been on the farm.
If a problem arises, knowing who was there will help in limiting additional flock infections.
Growers may post signs at the entrance to the farm indicating that entry to the farm and facilities
is restricted. Poultry producers work to educate members of the local community of the risks to
their flocks and the need to restrict traffic on their farms. This can be done by attending local
community meetings or social events and speaking to groups and individuals about this subject.
Print an article in the local newspaper about the importance of bio-security for your farm and
others. This can also help educate people regarding the seriousness of this issue.

Limit Visitations to Other Poultry Farms

Poultry growers should refrain from visiting other poultry operations unless absolutely
necessary. When-ever it is necessary to visit another farm, growers should be sure to exercise
additional precautions such as showering and changing clothes before arriving and washing any
vehicle before entering a farm. It will be very important for growers to wear protective clothing
including boots, coveralls and headgear and to clean and disinfect all clothing and equipment
before returning to their facilities. Showering and changing into clean clothes will also be
necessary.

Keep All Animals Out of Poultry Houses

Animals can be carriers of poultry disease causing organisms. Growers should not allow pets
such as dogs, cats or other animals in their houses. Some growers will allow their dogs to walk
the houses with them, but this is risky because the dogs may have been exposed to other animals
or birds that have been contaminated with disease organisms. Poultry houses should be kept as
closed as possible to prevent wild birds from getting inside. Wild birds utilizing the feeders and
defecating in the houses can be a source of disease.

Practice Sound Rodent and Pest Control Programs

Rats, mice, and insects such as flies and darkling beetles can carry and spread microorganisms.
Growers should consult with their poultry company and practice effective rodent and insect
control programs. Eliminating or reducing as many of these pests as possible will reduce the risk
of contracting or spreading a disease.
Avoid Contact with Non-Commercial Poultry or Wild Birds

Poultry growers should avoid all contact with non-commercial sources of poultry including
backyard flocks, fanciers, fairs, poultry shows, and markets. These types of poultry are seldom
fully vaccinated for the major poultry diseases and they are often exposed to many types and
flocks of birds. Non-commercial birds represent extremely high-risk contacts. Employees should
not be allowed to own their own poultry and neighbors with backyard flocks should be informed
of the importance of getting sick or unhealthy birds to a diagnostic lab as soon as possible.
Growers should also avoid wild birds such as ducks, geese and turkeys. Growers with farm
ponds should be particularly concerned with the potential of carrying droppings from wild birds
around ponds into their poultry houses. Wild birds are well known to be carriers of the avian
influenza virus as well as other poultry diseases. Hunters should be sure they take the same bio-
security precautions as if they were visiting another poultry farm (i.e. showering, changing
clothes, sanitizing vehicles, etc.).

Inspect Flocks Daily

Growers are required by their contract to inspect their flocks every day. Mortality should be
picked up daily and disposed of in a timely and approved method. Stock-piling mortality and
allowing carcasses to decompose before disposal increases the risk of spreading disease via
rodents and insects. Growers should report increases in mortality or signs of health problems to
their service representative immediately. This is required by contract and will ensure a rapid
detection and response should a disease be present. Growers should check with their poultry
company before using any vaccines, medications or drug treatments for a flock health problem.
Timely reporting of health issues on a farm will not only help restrict additional infections, but
will minimize losses to both the grower and the company.

Maximize the Environment

Maintaining litter in a relatively dry condition (i.e. 20%-30%) and providing good ventilation
will help control microorganism numbers. Wet conditions combined with warm in-house
temperatures provide a good growth environment for most disease causing organisms. Good
ventilation also helps reduce microorganisms as fresh air entering and leaving the house dilutes
microbe populations and removes them from the house. Poor ventilation can result in irritation of
the respiratory tract of birds making them more susceptible to bacterial and viral infections.

Keep Areas around Houses and Feed Bins Clean

Keeping grass and weeds cut around poultry houses and removing used equipment or trash is
beneficial in keeping rodent and insect populations under control. Thick grass or weeds and old
equipment provide refuge and habitat for rats, mice and insect pests that can spread disease.
Spilled feed should be cleaned up regularly and not allowed to collect for long periods of time.
Spilled feed around the feed bins will attract birds, rats, mice and insects.

Recognizing Disease Symptoms

It is important for poultry growers to be aware of signs of disease in their flocks. Early detection of contagious
diseases can greatly reduce the impact and spread of that disease to other flocks. Clinical signs associated with
the possibility of a disease in a poultry flock are:

 Lack of energy and appetite

 Decreased egg production
 Soft-shelled eggs or misshapen eggs
 Swelling of the head, eyes, comb, wattles and hocks
 Purple discoloration of the wattles, combs and legs
 Nasal discharge
 Coughing, wheezing and sneezing
 Lack of coordination in mobility
 Diarrhea
 Sudden or excessive mortality without clinical signs.

5.2.6 Choose of disinfectants

Consider these characteristics to choose disinfectant:

 Cost.
 Efficacy (killing efficiency against viruses, bacteria, fungi).
 Activity with organic matter.
 Toxicity (relative safety to animals).
 Residual activity.
 Effect on fabric and metals.
 Activity with soap.
 Solubility (acidity, alkalinity, pH).
 Contact time & Temperature

5.2.7 Steps should be taken during disinfectant use

To disinfect the premises of an exotic fowl farm, follow these steps. First, clean.

1. Remove all bedding, feed, and manure.

 2. Sweep out loose dirt, cobwebs, etc.
3. Scrub all surfaces with a detergent/disinfectant.
4. Rinse all detergent and organic matter from surfaces. A steam or high-pressure water
whose may be helpful for steps 3 and 4.
5. Apply the disinfectant.
6. Allow the disinfectant to dry completely.
7. Reapply the disinfectant and allow it to dry a second time (optional).
8. Bed the area with fresh materials and rinse all water and feeding equipment before
refilling them.

These steps are adapted from a procedure published in “Policies for Prevention,” Large Animal
Veterinarian, May/June 1993.

5.3 Limitations:

 The study was conducted for 1 month. This period was very short to conduct a study
fruitfully.

 Many times farmers were non cooperative.

 Sometimes misleading information was drawn by farmers.

 Farmers tried to hide their fault so sometimes errors might happened during fulfilling the
questionnaire.
 CONCLUTION & RECOMMENDATIONS
Poultry is a major sub-sector of livestock. Poultry rearing has emerged as an integral part of
agribusiness of the farming community in Bangladesh. It is now one of the most prospective
sectors for development in our country. It is a quick returnable enterprise that needs relatively
small initial investment. Poultry diseases are one of the most important causes for loss in poultry
farming. The farmers do not get expected return due to attack of poultry diseases. The diseases
often attack in endemic form & cause a great economic loss to the poultry rearers. We all know
that prevention is better than cure. Here bio-security is the best protection to act against most of
the diseases of poultry & hence check economic loss. For this reason we can easily tell that good
bio-security has major role in the best possible control of diseases. A strong bio-security easily
reduces the treatment costs & thereby increases profitability of a farm.

In addition to that:

 Bio-security helps to keep out many sorts of exotic diseases.

 The risks of zoonotic diseases can be reduced.

 The overall flock health of a farm can be improved & make better.

 It lessens many extra costs of a farm specially the cost of disease treatment.

 It improves the farm productivity as well as profitability.

 It has a great role in public health.

 Farmers can be beneficial to take protection prior to disease occurrence.

In case of bio-security measurement the drainage system was very poor in my study area such as
potiya and Anowara upazila, in Chittagong. Broiler farms of Anowara upazila used 77.77%
burial method which is more than patiya upazila(58%). Only 16.66% broiler farm practiced foot
bathing or hand washing in both Potiya & Anowara upazila. Most of the time lime was used as
preventive measures to disinfect the surroundings of both study area which is 41.66% & 16.66%
for broiler farm.

Though bio-security has such a vast beneficial effect but this study revealed that most of the
commercial poultry farms both in broiler and layer farms of the rural areas of both Potiya &
Anowara do not get the standard ideas of bio-security. The awareness among people is not
handsome enough for the prevention of infectious and contagious diseases. Bio-security
measures are the pre-requisite of poultry farming. If the importance of bio-security can be
realized and followed properly, producers and neighbors both can be risk free as well as
beneficial. So it is of great importance to know the present status of bio-security practiced in
commercial farms of rural areas (Jubery,2003). The present study gives a very short overview of
the present status of bio-security maintained in rural areas of Patiya & Anowara Upazila of
Chittagong as well as Bangladesh.

Recommendations:

There exists the shortage of capital & management knowledge of poultry rearer. The poultry
producers should be trained about improved farming & beneficial effects of bio-security. This
will help to improve the productivity of poultry & thus help to meet the increasing demand of
protein in our country.

 The poultry producers should be trained about improved farming & beneficial effects of
bio-security.

 Bio-security campaign should be conducted.

 Drainage system, dead bird disposal & supply of water should be improved.

 The study should be further conducted to get as good result as possible.