Avian Influenza

We have been asked questions about what we do at Northwest Gamebirds to protect our birds from Avian Influenza (AI). We would like to take this opportunity to review with you our bio-security policies and procedures. AI is just one of many diseases which can affect birds.

Some of our standard operating procedures include:

• No one is permitted to enter our facilities without authorization.
• All visitors are required to comply with our strict bio-security standards, which include a mandatory 48 hour “break” from contact poultry or livestock, wearing disposable boots and freshly laundered clothing.
• Our breeding, hatching and brooding facilities are separated. This reduces the risk of disease transmission.
• Our birds are raised indoors with no outside avian contact.
• All equipment is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected between every hatch.
• All brooder/grow out rooms remain empty for a period of time between flocks.
• All flocks are started on fresh, new, dry bedding.
• AI testing is implemented through the National Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP). Our participation is in this program is a part of our strict bio-security program.

Many of the countries where AI is prevalent do not have these types of controls in place to maintain bio-security at every level, as well as a lower ability to test flocks in remote locations leading to increased spread of the disease there.

Detailed Avian Influenza (AI) information can be found on these web sites:

• USDA
• APHIS