This article gives general information only. Always follow the product label and the advice of your veterinarian. Content should be reviewed by HP Poultry’s veterinary team before publishing.
Biosecurity means the everyday practices that stop disease-causing organisms from entering a farm, and from spreading within it. Vaccines and medicines play an important role in flock health, but they work best on a farm where the risk of infection is already kept low. Most biosecurity measures cost little and depend mainly on consistency.
Control who and what comes onto the farm
People, vehicles and equipment are among the most common ways disease reaches a flock.
- Keep one clearly marked entrance and keep gates closed.
- Allow only essential visitors, and keep a visitor log with dates and the last farm each person visited.
- Provide farm-only boots and clothing, or disposable overalls and boot covers, at the entrance to each house.
- Keep feed trucks and other vehicles away from the poultry houses where possible, and clean and disinfect wheels on entry.
- Do not share equipment, crates or trays with other farms unless they have been cleaned and disinfected.
Hygiene at the house entrance
A footbath or boot-change area at each house door is only useful if it is maintained. Change the disinfectant solution regularly, and more often when it becomes dirty, because organic matter reduces its effect. Wash hands before and after entering a house.
All-in, all-out and cleaning between flocks
Where possible, place birds of a single age in each house and remove them at the same time. Between flocks:
- Remove all litter, feed and manure.
- Dry-clean and then wash all surfaces, drinkers and feeders with detergent.
- Apply a suitable disinfectant at the concentration and contact time stated on its label.
- Leave the house empty and dry for a rest period before new birds arrive.
Keep out wild birds, rodents and insects
Wild birds, rats, mice and insects can carry disease. Repair holes in walls and netting, store feed in closed containers, clean up spilled feed promptly, and run a regular rodent control programme.
Water and feed
Clean drinking water supports flock health and the performance of water-administered products. Clean water tanks and lines regularly, and check water quality periodically. Buy feed from reliable sources and store it dry and off the floor.
Dead birds and new stock
Collect dead birds at least daily and dispose of them in the way required by local rules, away from the poultry houses. Buy chicks from trusted hatcheries with a known health status.
Watch for early signs
Changes in feed or water intake, egg production, behaviour or daily mortality can be the first sign of a problem. Record these daily and contact your veterinarian early if something changes.