... Salmonella’s sex life key to mitigating food safety risks
Nov 14, 2019Susan Spiegel
Food safety challenges linked to Salmonella could be tackled more effectively by better understanding the sex life of bacteria, according to a leading US government veterinarian.
... AAAP publishes eighth edition of Avian Disease Manual
Nov 13, 2019Susan Spiegel
The AAAP has released the eighth edition of its venerable Avian Diseases Manual, widely regarded in the poultry industry as the essential guide for diagnosing and managing diseases.
... US poultry vets: Disease control and food safety identified as future research priorities
Nov 07, 2019Susan Spiegel
Surveys carried out by the AAAP found veterinarians working across the broiler, egg and turkey sectors believe food safety should be a high-priority area for future research, alongside vaccine and...
... Unusual presentation of bacterial septicemia in broilers tied to breeders
Oct 29, 2019Susan Spiegel
An unusual presentation of bacterial septicemia in broilers underscores the importance of obtaining a good history and input from bird caretakers, according to David French, DVM, a staff veterinarian...
... New Poultry Vaccine from Zoetis Helps Build Strong Immune Foundation in Breeder Hens and Their Progeny
Oct 29, 2019Susan Spiegel
Poulvac Maternavac® 4, an inactivated vaccine from Zoetis that helps protect chickens against four important diseases, has been licensed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and will begin shipping...
... Perdue veterinarian seeks answers to inconsistent foodborne pathogen load
Oct 28, 2019Susan Spiegel
Taking a closer look at why incidence of Salmonella and Campylobacter varied widely on farms in the same production system helped to demonstrate the importance of management and communication with...
... Moisture monitoring critical to improving bird health and welfare
Oct 23, 2019Susan Spiegel
Poultry shed humidity should be monitored as regularly as shed temperature and ventilation to ensure bird health and productivity is as high as it can be.
... Effective Salmonella control requires involvement of entire production chain
Oct 23, 2019Susan Spiegel
By Douglas L. Fulnechek, DVM, Senior Public Health Veterinarian, Zoetis
... Keys to successful coccidiosis control with a bioshuttle program
Oct 20, 2019Susan Spiegel
Resistance is unlikely to be a problem in coccidiosis bioshuttle programs, Greg Mathis, PhD, Southern Poultry Research, told Poultry Health Today.
... Necrotic enteritis control requires multi-pronged approach in RWA systems
Oct 17, 2019Susan Spiegel
Feeding higher levels of copper and zinc in the diet, managing litter moisture and controlling coccidiosis are keys to stopping necrotic enteritis (NE) in poultry raised without antibiotics (RWA),...
... Avian pathogenic E. coli: Difficult to prevent and control
Oct 10, 2019Susan Spiegel
The bacterium E. coli has re-emerged in broiler operations, which seems to coincide with poultry companies’ switch to ‘no antibiotics ever’ (NAE) programs.
Diagnostics, Flock welfare, Global TOP NEWS, Infectious Diseases, Interviews, News, PHT GLOBAL, PHT US, Podcast, Respiratory, TOP NEWS, Videos
... Sentinel broilers, PCR testing help isolate, identify evolving IBV populations in Arkansas
Oct 07, 2019Susan Spiegel
How do you look for new serotypes of a virus that might be circulating in an area? Sentinel birds are a good place to start, according to Abigail Reith, DVM, a technical services veterinarian for...
... Reductions in medically important antimicrobials reflect industry stewardship
Oct 02, 2019Susan Spiegel
Reductions in the use of medically important antimicrobials demonstrate the poultry industry’s commitment to stewardship of these valuable medications, Randall Singer, DVM, MPVM, PhD, told Poultry...
... Helping contract growers’ transition to no-antibiotics-ever broiler production
Sep 29, 2019Susan Spiegel
Successful transition from conventional to no-antibiotics-ever (NAE) broiler production requires awareness of all the changes needed and lots of advance planning.
... Better air circulation, moderately lower humidity improve paw quality
Sep 23, 2019Susan Spiegel
Increasing air circulation coupled with moderate reductions in humidity can dramatically improve paw quality, Michael Czarick and Connie Mou, University of Georgia, told Poultry Health Today.
... US poultry industry shifting focus to Campylobacter, Salmonella Infantis
Sep 19, 2019Susan Spiegel
The US poultry industry needs to revisit Campylobacter-control strategies in preparation for new performance standards coming from USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service, Ashley Peterson,...
... Sprinkler systems benefit animal welfare, reduce water use
Sep 12, 2019Susan Spiegel
Sprinkler systems used in conjunction with cool cells during hot summer weather can not only benefit animal welfare, they can dramatically reduce water use.
... What more can live production do to reduce Salmonella in poultry?
Sep 11, 2019Susan Spiegel
Successful Salmonella control throughout live poultry production requires an integrated effort, attention to detail and careful follow-through to help processing plants meet more stringent USDA...
... Wet bulb reservoirs can be source of bacterial contamination for hatching eggs
Sep 10, 2019Susan Spiegel
Wet-bulb reservoirs in hatchery incubators should be included in the bacterial-monitoring program to ensure they aren’t the source of egg-shell contamination.
... NAE producers need to focus on Eimeria oocysts for more effective control of coccidiosis, necrotic enteritis
Sep 09, 2019Susan Spiegel
By Don Waldrip, DVM, Senior Technical Service Veterinarian, Zoetis
... Vaccinated birds shown to have lower incidence of Salmonella at processing
Sep 04, 2019Susan Spiegel
Broilers vaccinated against Salmonella showed reduced levels of the pathogen at processing in a recent study, according to Charles Hofacre, PhD, president, Southern Poultry Research Group. Inc.
... Coccidiosis vaccination impedes nutrient digestibility
Aug 30, 2019Susan Spiegel
Poultry veterinarians and production managers are all too familiar with coccidiosis and its impact on gut health, nutrient absorption, feed conversion and growth rate.
... What makes a chick tick: Help non-farm audiences understand poultry’s needs
Aug 29, 2019Susan Spiegel
Rather than adopt costly production practices that don’t necessarily benefit the health or welfare of poultry, veterinarians should work to educate non-farm audiences about a bird’s inherent...
... Poultry litter management key to MS control
Aug 28, 2019Susan Spiegel
Litter topped the list of environmental factors most consistently positive for Mycoplasma synoviae (MS), Naola Ferguson, DVM, associate professor at the University of Georgia, told Poultry Health...
... Preharvest reduction of Salmonella, Campylobacter key to better control efforts
Aug 27, 2019Susan Spiegel
By Abhinav Upadhyay, DVM, PhD, postdoctoral associate and Dan J. Donoghue, PhD, professor, University of Arkansas
... Preventive measures are only option for combatting key parasites in turkeys
Aug 19, 2019Susan Spiegel
Turkey producers will need to rely on preventive measures including biosecurity, good gut health and genetic selection to combat three key flagellated protozoan parasites that can affect their...
... Zinc can help combat infectious bronchitis in poultry
Aug 14, 2019Susan Spiegel
Research on infectious bronchitis virus remains a top priority for the poultry industry. Not only is it widespread, but new serotypes also continue to emerge due to mutations and recombination events...
... Water quality: No room for error in NAE flocks
Aug 13, 2019Susan Spiegel
By Tom Tabler, PhD, Extension Professor, Mississippi State University Extension Service, Poultry Science Department, Mississippi State, Mississippi
... Reducing salmonellosis: Let’s try teaching ‘aseptic technique’ in the home kitchen
Aug 11, 2019Susan Spiegel
By Robert O’Connor, DVM, MAM,
Senior vice president,
Foster Farms
... Report: US poultry producers slash use of medically important antimicrobials while shifting focus to disease prevention
Aug 08, 2019Susan Spiegel
US poultry producers dramatically decreased their use of medically important antimicrobials over a 5-year period ending in 2017, according to a new report released by Randall Singer, DVM, PhD,...
... Ensuring chick quality in NAE production
Jul 30, 2019Susan Spiegel
The increase in 7-day chick mortality that has come along with the elimination of antibiotics requires a focus on containing bacteria that start in the layer house.
... Studies in chickens could lead to blackhead control in turkeys
Jul 26, 2019Susan Spiegel
Broiler breeders are an ideal carrier for Histomonas — the cause of blackhead disease — but unlike turkeys that often die from the infection, broiler breeders survive.
... New AAAP Women’s Network opening doors in poultry industry
Jul 25, 2019Susan Spiegel
A new group within the AAAP aims to provide a forum for the growing number of women who are joining the avian veterinary profession.
... Live-production management practices that help contain Salmonella
Jul 15, 2019Susan Spiegel
Avoidance of wet litter and well-timed feed withdrawal are two of several management steps that will help control the load of Salmonella going into the processing plant.
... Focal duodenal necrosis in table-egg layers easily overlooked
Jul 15, 2019Susan Spiegel
Focal duodenal necrosis in table-egg layers can be an easily overlooked cause of drops in egg production and egg-case weight loss.
... When vaccinating broilers against Salmonella may be worthwhile
Jul 09, 2019Susan Spiegel
Vaccinating broilers is a big investment and may not be needed on all farms, but it can be a worthwhile move if there are high loads of Salmonella coming into the processing plant.
... Trial shows glutamine aids gut health in broilers raised without antibiotics
Jul 05, 2019Susan Spiegel
With the increase in no-antibiotic-ever production, glutamine may serve as a helpful nutrient asset, particularly when birds are under stress.
... Be prepared to prevent heat stress in layers
Jun 27, 2019Susan Spiegel
By Jean E. Sander, DVM,
Senior Technical Services Veterinarian
Zoetis
... World poultry industry still struggling with necrotic enteritis
Jun 27, 2019Susan Spiegel
NE remains a formidable challenge in broilers raised without antibiotics, and preventing the disease means steering clear of predisposing factors and implementing a rigid coccidiosis-control plan.
... Zoetis Fast Tracking Relaunch of Avian Coryza Vaccine to Aid U.S. Disease Outbreaks
Jun 24, 2019Susan Spiegel
Zoetis has reintroduced the vaccine Poulvac® Coryza ABC IC3 to help U.S. poultry producers combat outbreaks of avian coryza, an acute respiratory infection.
... Poultry specialists heading to Washington, DC, for latest insights on flock health, welfare, food safety
Jun 19, 2019Susan Spiegel
Poultry health professionals from more than 20 countries will gather in Washington, DC, Aug. 2-5, for the annual AAAP meeting.
... Maslow’s Pyramid: Self-actualization for chickens?
Jun 17, 2019Susan Spiegel
By Philip A. Stayer, DVM, MS, ACPV, Corporate Veterinarian, Sanderson Farms, Inc.
... On the road again? Don’t forget Poultry Health Today podcasts
Jun 14, 2019Susan Spiegel
Most of Poultry Health Today’s video interviews with leading health experts and other opinion leaders can be downloaded as podcasts and listened to on mobile devices or through audio systems of...
... Integrated plan with live production needed to meet new Salmonella standards
Jun 13, 2019Susan Spiegel
Poultry companies struggling to meet higher USDA standards for Salmonella need to increase control efforts in live production to help avoid the dreaded Category 3.
... Pilgrim’s veterinarian shares experiences with NAE production
Jun 07, 2019Susan Spiegel
Preparation, meticulous attention to sanitation and improved communication with hatchery staff and growers are critical for NAE production.
... Cooling chickens with sprinklers has multiple benefits
Jun 03, 2019Susan Spiegel
By Tom Tabler, PhD, Extension Professor, Mississippi State University, Extension Service, Poultry Science Department, Mississippi State, Mississippi
... Four areas of hatchery management to help achieve better biosecurity
May 23, 2019Susan Spiegel
Diligent attention to four areas of hatchery management — egg-pack quality, incubation, sanitation and in ovo vaccination — can go a long way.
... A few tools to improve brooding, not antibiotic alternatives, are key to NE prevention
May 20, 2019Susan Spiegel
By Reg Smith, Vice President, Operations, Atlantic Poultry, Nova Scotia, Canada, Formerly Chair, British Poultry Council’s Antibiotic Stewardship strategy
... Poultry producers facing higher hurdles with USDA food-safety standards
May 16, 2019Susan Spiegel
Poultry producers can expect to jump higher hurdles as USDA continues to raise the bar for food safety.
... Moving up: Vaccinating broilers may help poultry companies improve Salmonella ratings
May 13, 2019Susan Spiegel
Vaccinating broilers against Salmonella could be an effective live-side intervention for obtaining higher ratings in the Salmonella categorizations established by the USDA’s FSIS
Biosecurity, Global TOP NEWS, Infectious Diseases, Interviews, News, PHT GLOBAL, PHT US, Podcast, Respiratory, TOP NEWS, Videos
... Virulent ND in California sending wake-up call to US poultry industry
May 08, 2019Susan Spiegel
Outbreaks of virulent Newcastle disease (vND) that have spread from backyard to commercial flocks in California are providing a wake-up call to the entire US poultry industry.
... More than half of US broilers raised without antibiotics in 2018
May 06, 2019Susan Spiegel
Broilers raised without antibiotics accounted for 51% of total US production in 2018 — an 11-point jump from the previous year and, more significantly, up from 3% in 2014.
... Bioshuttle program helps control E. tenella outbreaks in pullets
May 02, 2019Susan Spiegel
Administration of an in-feed anticoccidial after coccidiosis vaccination has helped alleviate outbreaks of Eimeria tenella in broiler breeder replacement stock.
... ‘Causal’ pie chart can help manage necrotic enteritis
Apr 29, 2019Susan Spiegel
Use of a simple “causal” pie chart is proving to be a helpful tool for controlling necrotic enteritis (NE).
... Aggressive vaccination of broiler breeders needed to keep reovirus in check
Apr 18, 2019Susan Spiegel
Aggressive vaccination of broiler breeders for reovirus using live and inactivated vaccines has been one of the most important steps the US poultry industry has taken to maintain good protection...
... Life without antibiotics: Field lessons learned the hard way
Apr 15, 2019Susan Spiegel
Producers need to think long and hard before jumping into “no antibiotics ever” (NAE) poultry production.
... Dirty chick boxes can be source of Salmonella at hatcheries
Apr 12, 2019Susan Spiegel
Dirty chick boxes at hatcheries can be a source of Salmonella, but the risk was still lower than expected in a study conducted at one US hatchery.
... AVMA releases first-ever guidelines for depopulation of animals
Apr 10, 2019Susan Spiegel
The AVMA has published its first ever Guidelines for the Depopulation of Animals to help veterinarians support animal welfare in situations where the difficult decision to depopulate has been made.
... Advanced diagnostic tests helping identify IBV in Europe
Apr 09, 2019Susan Spiegel
The QX strain of infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) remains the most common variant of IBV in Europe, but the prevalence of the variant 02 strain appears to be on the increase
Diagnostics, Flock welfare, Global TOPICS, Interviews, News, PHT GLOBAL, PHT US, Podcast, Respiratory, TOPICS, Videos
... Genomic sequencing could aid ILT control efforts in poultry
Apr 09, 2019Susan Spiegel
Molecular virology is already leading to discoveries that will improve management of ILT, according to Stephen Spatz, PhD, molecular virologist with USDA’s Southeast Poultry Research Laboratory,...
... Navigating the maze of alternative products for necrotic enteritis control
Apr 08, 2019Susan Spiegel
The effectiveness of antibiotic alternatives is going to vary among “no antibiotics ever” production systems, and it’s up to the producers to figure out which alternatives will work.
... Urban chicken movement requires legislators to learn chicken basics
Apr 04, 2019Susan Spiegel
Legislators need to know some basics about raising chickens in response to an upsurge in the “urban chicken” trend, Nat Tablante, DVM, told Poultry Health Today.
... Virulent ND outbreaks underscore need to rethink vaccination program
Apr 01, 2019Susan Spiegel
By Philip A. Stayer, DVM, MS, ACPV,
Corporate Veterinarian,
Sanderson Farms, Inc.
... Effective biosecurity requires addressing the culture of a company
Mar 29, 2019Susan Spiegel
Effective biosecurity on poultry farms requires developing the kind of culture that motivates everyone in the company to adhere to the procedures that protect flocks from infectious disease.
... Novel technologies needed to combat IB in chickens
Mar 27, 2019Susan Spiegel
Despite decades of vaccination, the world poultry industry’s ongoing battle with infectious bronchitis (IB) continues to rage and points to the need for novel technologies to combat the disease.
... Gizzard changes seen in NAE flocks but diagnosis is murky
Mar 21, 2019Susan Spiegel
Raising broilers without antibiotics appears to be affecting the gizzard in ways that aren’t yet fully appreciated, and it’s not clear if the changes observed are true gizzard erosions, Jessica...
... Biosecurity expert sees more room for improvement on poultry farms
Mar 19, 2019Susan Spiegel
Biosecurity on commercial poultry farms has come a long way but still has far to go, Joseph Giambrone, PhD, professor of poultry science, Auburn University, told Poultry Health Today.
... USDA poultry inspections can help improve live production, processing
Mar 15, 2019Susan Spiegel
By Philip A. Stayer, DVM, MS, ACPV
Corporate Veterinarian
Sanderson Farms, Inc.
... Sanderson vet shares thoughts on managing elusive reovirus, other gut diseases
Mar 11, 2019Susan Spiegel
Autogenous vaccines used in a reovirus vaccination program need to be updated relatively often to keep up with changes in the pathogen
... Poultry experts identify weak links in live production that can compromise Salmonella control
Mar 05, 2019Susan Spiegel
Improved Salmonella control requires fixing weak links in live production that allow the pathogen to get into a flock, poultry experts advised during an industry roundtable.
... Mycoplasma synoviae demanding more attention as poultry industry grasps its full impact
Feb 27, 2019Susan Spiegel
Emerging, variant strains of Mycoplasma synoviae are causing eggshell apex abnormalities as well as production drops in both layer and breeding flocks worldwide, Anneke Feberwee, DVM, PhD, from GD...
... Lameness in poultry can start in the hatchery
Feb 27, 2019Susan Spiegel
Lameness in poultry is often associated with bird weight, bacterial infections or the condition of the litter, but it actually begins much earlier in the bird’s life — often in the hatchery.
... Early exposure to Clostridium protects birds from necrotic enteritis
Feb 21, 2019Susan Spiegel
Early exposure to Clostridium perfringens in used litter may be a way to minimize the impact of necrotic enteritis (NE) in broilers, Steve Davis, DVM, told Poultry Health Today.
... Management key to preventing green muscle disease in broilers
Feb 18, 2019Susan Spiegel
By Tom Tabler, PhD, Extension Professor, Mississippi State University Extension Service, Poultry Science Department, Mississippi State, Mississippi
... Lightening the load: Teamwork between live production, processing key to reducing foodborne pathogens in poultry
Feb 15, 2019PHT Editor
While statistics show the US poultry industry has made great strides reducing foodborne pathogens, USDA’s new standards for Salmonella and Campylobacter in chicken parts have made poultry companies...
... Day 3 SPECIAL REPORT: News reports and interviews from IPPE
Feb 13, 2019Susan Spiegel
The 2019 International Production & Processing Expo is under way in Atlanta. Our editors are onsite, covering sessions and capturing interviews for future posts. Here's a look back at our 2018...
... Day 2 SPECIAL REPORT: News reports and interviews from IPPE
Feb 12, 2019Susan Spiegel
The 2019 International Production & Processing Expo is under way in Atlanta. Our editors are onsite, covering sessions and capturing interviews for future posts. Here's a look back at our 2018...
... Poultry Health Today marks 5th year with more than two dozen video interviews, session coverage at IPPE
Feb 12, 2019Susan Spiegel
Poultry Health Today, the world’s only news website focused on poultry health, is marking its 5th anniversary by covering technical sessions and conducting more than two dozen interviews with...
... Day 1 SPECIAL REPORT: News reports and interviews from IPPE
Feb 11, 2019Susan Spiegel
The 2019 International Production & Processing Expo is under way in Atlanta. Our editors are onsite, covering sessions and capturing interviews for future posts. Here's a look back at our 2018...
... SPECIAL REPORT: News reports and interviews from IPSF
Feb 10, 2019Susan Spiegel
The 2019 International Poultry Scientific Forum is under way in Atlanta. Our editors are onsite, covering sessions and capturing interviews for future posts. Here's a look back at our 2018 coverage....
... Necrotic enteritis control helps reduce Salmonella colonization
Feb 07, 2019Susan Spiegel
Maintaining good intestinal health in broilers is essential for minimizing the presence of Salmonella in birds sent for processing, Manuel Da Costa, DVM, PhD, associate director for Outcomes Research...
... New standards for foodborne pathogens expanding control programs to live production
Feb 06, 2019Susan Spiegel
A rise in the prevalence of Salmonella on whole chicken carcasses since USDA changed the testing medium used could indicate the prevalence of the pathogen was previously underestimated.
... Infectious bronchitis control: Understanding why it’s so difficult
Feb 05, 2019Susan Spiegel
By Mark W. Jackwood, PhD, Department Head, JR Glisson Professor of Avian Medicine, University of Georgia
... Sanitation key to successful NAE production
Feb 04, 2019Susan Spiegel
The key to successful “no antibiotics ever” (NAE) broiler production is cleanliness throughout every step of production, including a pristine hatchery.
... Football-crazed Americans to eat more than 1.3 billion wings for Super Bowl
Jan 31, 2019Susan Spiegel
The National Chicken Council projects that football-crazed (and undoubtedly thirsty) Americans will scarf down 1.38 billion wings on Super Bowl Sunday.
... Discrepancies emerge between animal welfare and consumer perceptions
Jan 30, 2019Susan Spiegel
Poultry “raised without antibiotics” now account for more than 50% of the broilers in US production, but those reductions in antibiotics usage have consequences.
... Refined carbs show promise as ‘sentinel’ for Salmonella control
Jan 23, 2019Susan Spiegel
Higher government standards for Salmonella control have put more pressure on poultry companies to reduce incidence on broiler farms and lower the pathogen load going into processing.
... To manage IBDV, ‘let the bird tell you what to do’
Jan 16, 2019Susan Spiegel
Conventional wisdom dictates that infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) field strains should determine the vaccine strategy. However, a recent study from Brazil indicates the reverse is also true.
... E. coli vaccination helps contain losses in broilers with IB infection
Jan 16, 2019Susan Spiegel
Field experience with infectious bronchitis in broilers during a harsh winter demonstrated that vaccination for secondary Escherichia coli infection helped stem losses
... Commercial poultry vets can help backyard growers, and themselves, by sharing tips on biosecurity
Jan 14, 2019Susan Spiegel
Improved communication between poultry company veterinarians and backyard chicken growers could help improve biosecurity and reduce disease spread for all flocks.
... Coccidiosis control, litter management key to NE prevention in broilers raised without antibiotics
Jan 10, 2019Susan Spiegel
Good coccidiosis control and litter management are the two most important steps producers can take to prevent necrotic enteritis (NE) in flocks raised without antibiotics.
... Heat-stress study shows need to increase ventilation with stocking density
Jan 09, 2019Susan Spiegel
As bird density increases, broiler producers need to be “more aggressive” with house ventilation to prevent heat stress in flocks, Brian Fairchild, PhD, professor, and Ming Lin Teo, graduate...
... Chicks may hold clues to lameness in older birds
Jan 07, 2019Susan Spiegel
Lameness in some poultry flocks has researchers searching for the cause, Suzanne Dougherty, DVM, a consulting poultry veterinarian based in Alabama, told Poultry Health Today.
... It takes two: Coccidiosis vaccines effective against E. tenella after adequate cycling
Dec 26, 2018Susan Spiegel
Coccidiosis vaccination was effective in broilers challenged with Eimeria tenella but only after vaccinal oocysts cycled twice, Laura Tensa, DVM, told Poultry Health Today.
... New US turkey hatchery shows industry’s focus on automation, biosecurity
Dec 18, 2018Susan Spiegel
Between sinking unemployment rates, the challenge of retaining good labor to conduct repetitive tasks and the increasing need to optimize biosecurity, more and more poultry companies are turning to...
... What does it take to be a successful poultry grower? Experts share their views
Dec 17, 2018Susan Spiegel
Successful contract poultry farmers are hard workers, detail oriented and must literally serve as the gatekeepers of biosecurity, several experts and industry insiders say.
... Hurricane Florence and the poultry industry: Coping with the aftermath
Dec 13, 2018Susan Spiegel
By Philip A. Stayer, DVM, MS, ACPV
Corporate Veterinarian
Sanderson Farms, Inc.
... Can water treatments help reduce Salmonella levels before processing?
Dec 06, 2018Susan Spiegel
Feed withdrawal before moving broilers to the processing plant appears to increase their susceptibility to Salmonella, indicates research from the University of Georgia.
... Is genetics the key for lasting IBV immunity?
Dec 03, 2018Susan Spiegel
Manipulating the immune response may be one way infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) is controlled in the future, predict researchers studying genetic lines of poultry.
... Fresh approach to coccidiosis needed to tackle increase in broiler gut damage
Nov 28, 2018Susan Spiegel
Changes in the behavior of one of the most important coccidial pathogens means poultry producers should take a fresh look at how they deal with the parasite.
... IBV vaccination protects broilers despite ammonia exposure
Nov 19, 2018Susan Spiegel
A recent study corroborates previous findings that broilers properly vaccinated for infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) are protected from IBV challenge despite exposure to moderate levels of ammonia.
... Heat stress may impair immune system in broilers
Nov 08, 2018Susan Spiegel
Heat stress in broilers induced lesions of lymphoid tissues, indicating immune system impairment, but it’s not yet known if heat stress affects the vulnerability or severity of coccidiosis.
... Consistency, follow-up key to controlling IBV
Nov 05, 2018Susan Spiegel
Infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) is a “moving target” and trying to keep ahead of it requires consistency and follow-up, explained Sjaak de Wit, DVM, PhD, of GD Animal Health, the Netherlands.
Biosecurity, Global TOP NEWS, Infectious Diseases, Interviews, News, PHT GLOBAL, PHT US, Podcast, Respiratory, TOP NEWS, Videos
... Biosecurity, disinfection, downtime keys to better ILT control
Nov 01, 2018Susan Spiegel
Strict biosecurity is the best defense against infectious laryngotracheitis (ILT) in broiler flocks, advises Maricarmen García, PhD, a professor at the University of Georgia.
... Halting in ovo vaccination not a good option for managing hatchery bacteria
Oct 22, 2018Susan Spiegel
Higher 7-day mortality from bacterial infections in the hatchery is no reason to stop in ovo vaccination for Marek’s and other diseases, according to a consulting poultry veterinarian.
... Vaccination protects broilers from IBV despite exposure to moderate ammonia levels
Oct 21, 2018Susan Spiegel
Properly vaccinated commercial broilers are protected from an infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) challenge despite exposure to moderate ammonia levels, according to a study that surprised researchers.
... AAAP issues call for papers for 2019 conference
Oct 18, 2018Susan Spiegel
The American Association of Avian Pathologists (AAAP) is now accepting abstract submissions for its 2019 conference, Aug. 2-6, Washington, DC. The deadline is Dec. 3, 2018.
... Three research-proven ways to maximize Marek’s disease control
Oct 07, 2018Susan Spiegel
By Tarsicio Villalobos, DVM,
Zoetis
... Study shows how unchanged boots disrupt biosecurity
Sep 26, 2018Susan Spiegel
Poultry farmers looking for ways to reduce the spread of viruses and bacteria in their facilities need look no further than the boots on their feet.
... Modified-live vaccination reduced salmonellosis in Brazilian study
Sep 20, 2018Susan Spiegel
New research confirms that modified-live vaccines (MLVs) can effectively reduce salmonellosis in broilers — a leading cause of food poisoning in humans.
... Controlling coccidiosis helps prevent histomoniasis in broiler pullets
Sep 04, 2018Susan Spiegel
The incidence of histomoniasis, commonly known as blackhead disease, is increasing in Southeastern US broiler-breeding operations — and young breeders 25 to 30 weeks old seem particularly...
... Blackhead disease causes reduced egg production in layer hens
Aug 03, 2018Susan Spiegel
Blackhead disease can cause an important drop in egg production among commercial layer hens, Christina Sigmon of North Carolina State University, said during the 2018 International Poultry Scientific...
... Specialists share tips for optimizing immunity in ‘no antibiotics ever’ and ‘reduced use’ broiler flocks
Jul 14, 2018Susan Spiegel
Finding ways to optimize immunity and give broilers more “staying power” could be the best strategy for maintaining the health and welfare of broilers, according to disease specialists at a...
... Special Report: Nixing necrotic enteritis in broilers
Jul 09, 2018Susan Spiegel
This week poultry specialists will gather in Denver, Colorado, for the second International Conference on Necrotic Enteritis. In this special report, Poultry Health Today looks at the impact of this...
... Vaccination followed with feed medication gives pullets added protection against coccidiosis
Jul 02, 2018Susan Spiegel
Inadequate coccidiosis protection in pullets can lead to health issues ranging from uneven weight gain to mortality.
... More amino acids, feed aid broiler chicks vaccinated for coccidiosis
Jun 19, 2018Susan Spiegel
Feeding broilers a diet high in amino acids, along with more feed, can minimize the adverse effects on performance that sometimes occur after coccidiosis vaccination.
... PROHEALTH to Present Sustainable Solutions for Broiler Health at VIV Europe 2018
Jun 18, 2018Susan Spiegel
Smart ideas for sustainable poultry disease management will be featured in a special PROHEALTH workshop at VIV Europe 2018, to be held June 20-22 in Utrecht, Netherlands.
... Loose stools linked to blackhead disease transmission in turkeys
May 17, 2018Susan Spiegel
Enteric inflammation and loose stools can affect the rate that turkeys contract blackhead disease.
... Tyson vet: Act quickly on unexplained poultry mortality
May 01, 2018Susan Spiegel
Quick action by breeder managers and veterinarians is credited with the rapid resolution of an avian influenza (AI) outbreak in Tennessee in March of 2017.
... Rennier: NAE programs represented 40% of US broiler feeds in 2017
Apr 30, 2018Susan Spiegel
Chickens raised without antibiotics of any type consumed 40% of the broiler feed produced un the US in 2017, according to Greg Rennier, PhD, president of Rennier Associates Inc.
... Conference seeks solutions for costly respiratory diseases in poultry
Apr 26, 2018Susan Spiegel
More than 150 poultry health professionals from the Americas, Europe and the Middle East will flock to Athens, Georgia, May 30-June 1, for the 2018 International Avian Respiratory Disease...
... USDA, industry groups take issue with WHO’s statement on poultry antibiotics
Apr 13, 2018Susan Spiegel
The USDA’s chief scientist and several scientific and industry organizations took issue with the World Health Organization’s recent news release recommending that poultry and livestock producers...
... Lack of medications, veterinarians hamper turkey industry
Apr 10, 2018Susan Spiegel
The US turkey industry continues to be hampered by a lack of approved efficacious drugs, according to a 2017 survey. Since 2005, four medications have been withdrawn, leaving the industry without any...
... AAAP plans to take more proactive approach in poultry health, welfare conversations
Mar 19, 2018Susan Spiegel
The American Association of Avian Pathologists (AAAP) plans to increase its public presence and become a trusted source of information for consumers about the science behind poultry health.
... Layer-hen stocking density affects Salmonella shedding
Mar 15, 2018Susan Spiegel
Lower stocking density for laying hens was associated with less fecal shedding of Salmonella Heidelberg in a USDA study.
... Can improper vaccination make IBV worse?
Feb 23, 2018Susan Spiegel
Improper vaccination not only fails to protect flocks from infectious bronchitis virus (IBV), but it can also make the problem worse, a leading poultry health expert says.
... E. coli vaccination reduces antibiotic use in broilers
Feb 12, 2018Susan Spiegel
New studies showed that vaccination against Escherichia coli significantly reduced antibiotic use on commercial broiler farms, particularly in birds at high risk of infection.
... Poultry Health Today lines up video interviews with leading poultry experts at IPPE
Jan 29, 2018Susan Spiegel
More than two dozen poultry-health experts and trend watchers will be interviewed on camera over the next three days as part of Poultry Health Today’s news coverage of the 2018 International...
... More poultry research focusing on antibiotic alternatives
Jan 26, 2018Susan Spiegel
The poultry industry’s focus on alternative approaches to managing gut health should help preserve the efficacy of the few remaining antibiotics it has available, said Donna Carver, DVM, PhD.
... Planning anticoccidial rotation strategies: Consider the consequences
Jan 25, 2018Susan Spiegel
Anticoccidial rotation strategies help reduce the health and economic impact of coccidiosis, while preserving the efficacy of the limited range of tools available for managing it.
... Deadly duo: Study shows link between E. maxima, Clostridium
Dec 12, 2017Susan Spiegel
New research by Callie McQuain, DVM, veterinarian and grad student at the University of Georgia, substantiates anecdotal field experience indicating that Eimeria maxima is the type of coccidia that...
... Avian influenza viruses can persist in footbaths and manure
Dec 08, 2017Susan Spiegel
Growers shouldn’t assume the disinfectants they use in footbaths are effective against avian influenza (AI), indicates a study from the University of California–Davis.
... Is incentivized vaccination the answer to poultry’s public-health woes?
Dec 07, 2017Susan Spiegel
Governments and retailers should incentivize broiler producers to make better use of vaccines that could help protect public health, according to an expert in poultry infections.
... Check farm biosecurity now ahead of potential avian flu return, disease expert says
Dec 07, 2017Susan Spiegel
Poultry producers should assess their farm biosecurity in preparation for a return of avian influenza this winter, according to an expert in the spread and control on animal disease.
... 44 million ‘respectable’ birds on the menu this Thanksgiving
Nov 20, 2017Susan Spiegel
If one of America’s founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin, had his way in the late 1700s, the turkey would have been the US national bird instead of the bald eagle — a majestic but imposing raptor...
... Shortages of processing antimicrobial possible as chemical industry recovers from Harvey
Nov 10, 2017Susan Spiegel
What does Hurricane Harvey have to do with the US poultry industry’s ability to control foodborne pathogens? Possibly plenty, according to Timothy Laube, general manager of Kroff Lab Services, Inc....
... Salmonella on carcass skin can contaminate ground turkey
Nov 06, 2017Susan Spiegel
Salmonella on the skin, rather than in infected muscle tissue, may be a significant contributor to ground-turkey contamination, indicates a study presented at the 2017 annual meeting of the American...
... New Marek’s test helps ensure successful vaccination, biosecurity
Oct 23, 2017Susan Spiegel
A new test is helping producers in Europe better protect their flocks against Marek’s disease (MD).
... E. maxima linked to mortality in broilers vaccinated for coccidiosis
Oct 17, 2017Susan Spiegel
Eimeria maxima in broilers vaccinated against coccidiosis appears to be an important cause of mortality, according to the preliminary results of a study presented at the 2017 annual meeting of the...
... Understanding the clinical picture key to effective IB control
Oct 13, 2017Susan Spiegel
Avian infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) is a highly contagious coronavirus found in chickens worldwide that costs the US poultry industry millions of dollars annually.
... Three-pronged E. coli strategy to help cut losses, improve profitability
Oct 11, 2017Susan Spiegel
Managing Escherichia coli infection in commercial poultry flocks has to be tackled on three fronts to help cut losses and improve profitability, says Allan Ball, of the Slate Hall Veterinary Practice...
... New flock-management trends call for new E. coli-management strategies, vets say
Oct 10, 2017Susan Spiegel
Two poultry veterinarians say that prevention of Escherichia coli infection is key as management trends toward free-range housing and reduced antibiotic use.
... Proper windrowing can minimize disease, benefit environmental management
Oct 01, 2017Susan Spiegel
By George W. Malone, MS
Malone Poultry Consulting
Princess Anne, Maryland
... Successful ABF production: Mastered technique or corporate culture?
Sep 29, 2017PHT Editor
Indiana's Miller Poultry's owner and president Galen Miller and production manager Stephen Shepard discuss their experiences, priorities, management style and business philosophy that led to 30%...
... Hofacre: There’s always room for improvement with Salmonella
Sep 21, 2017PHT Editor
Most US poultry companies are doing an “outstanding job” controlling Salmonella, but there's always room for improvement.
... Livestock farming standards to get boost under antimicrobial-resistance plan
Sep 17, 2017Susan Spiegel
The European Commission has unveiled plans to promote better global livestock farming standards in a bid to combat the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in animals and humans.
... Superbug warning over India’s poultry antibiotics use
Sep 05, 2017Susan Spiegel
The use of antibiotics for growth promotion in Indian poultry production is helping to breed bacteria that are highly resistant to most antibiotics, scientists have warned.
... US flocks have room to improve in avian flu protection
Sep 05, 2017Susan Spiegel
The US poultry sector can still do more to protect flocks from avian influenza, despite making significant efforts to improve biosecurity since the last major outbreak of the disease.
... UK makes significant cuts in poultry antibiotic use
Sep 05, 2017Susan Spiegel
The UK poultry sector has reduced its antibiotic use by more than 70% over four years, according to latest industry figures.
... Coccidiosis, necrotic enteritis challenge cage-free layer systems
Aug 30, 2017Susan Spiegel
Cage-free housing for egg layers allows birds to exhibit more natural behaviors, but it also carries an increased risk for morbidity and mortality...
... Compartmentalization key to global avian flu control
Aug 30, 2017Susan Spiegel
Standardizing biosecurity measures across the poultry sector is key to protecting birds from avian influenza and ensuring outbreaks do not decimate trade, according to a poultry health expert.
... ABF: ‘It’s not for everybody’
Aug 30, 2017PHT Editor
While the industry moves ahead with ABF production, we must recognize — and also respect — that not every poultry producer has the business model, market or even the inclination to deliberately...
... AAAP inducts 19 more avian-health professionals into its Hall of Honor
Aug 05, 2017Susan Spiegel
Recognizing their many contributions to the world poultry industry, the American Association of Avian Pathologists recently inducted 19 more avian-health professionals into its Hall of Honor.
... Sanderson Farms targets ‘marketing gimmicks’ about antibiotics
Aug 04, 2017PHT Editor
A new ad campaign released by Sanderson Farms Inc. seeks to debunk myths surrounding the use of antibiotics in US poultry production while exposing what it calls “marketing gimmicks designed to...
... Reducing food-borne bacterial infections must be team effort
Jul 25, 2017Susan Spiegel
Increased pressure to reduce bacterial food-borne infections in consumers is affecting poultry production from start to finish, panelists reported at a food safety roundtable, “Lightening the Load:...
... Poultry veterinarian named to AVMA Future Leaders program
Jul 23, 2017Susan Spiegel
Tak Niino, VMD, a senior poultry technical services representative for Zoetis, was one of 10 veterinarians in different fields selected to the Future Leaders program of the American Veterinary...
... Breeder E. coli vaccination boosts broiler health
Jul 06, 2017Susan Spiegel
Vaccination of broiler breeders against Escherichia coli helps improve the health of their progeny, reports a veterinarian in South Africa.
... Striking a balance with ABF poultry production
Jun 24, 2017PHT Editor
Back in 2013, less than 5% of the chicken produced in the US was raised without antibiotics. That number could
reach 25% to 30% within 5 years. How is the poultry industry adjusting?
... Lapses in biosecurity: Veterinarian urges poultry companies to avoid these mistakes
Jun 19, 2017Susan Spiegel
Biosecurity needs to be approached as a comprehensive process, not as a series of segregated actions, according to Jean Sander, DVM, senior technical services veterinarian for Zoetis.
... Air quality affects S. Heidelberg colonization in broilers
Jun 15, 2017PHT Editor
Improving air quality in broiler houses may be an important way to reduce colonization of S. Heidelberg, according to the results of a study presented at the 2017 International Poultry Scientific...
... Options for Salmonella control in live poultry production
Jun 15, 2017Susan Spiegel
By Steven C. Ricke, PhD
Professor, University of Arkansas
Director, Center for Food Safety, Institute of Food Science and Engineering
University of Arkansas
... Poultry Health Today unveils new tools for saving content, creating custom reports
Jun 06, 2017Susan Spiegel
Poultry Health Today — the industry’s only news website focused on flock health and welfare — has added new tools that allow registered users to bookmark favorites, save items for later viewing...
... Symposium to focus on poultry veterinarian’s role in shaping public policy, government regulations, consumer perceptions
May 16, 2017Susan Spiegel
Today’s poultry veterinarians are being asked to do more than ensure flock health and welfare. They’re also lending their expertise to public policy discussions that steer government regulations...
... Both organic, conventional processing reduce Campylobacter on carcasses
May 03, 2017PHT Editor
Both conventional and organic processing methods reduced Campylobacter on broiler carcasses in a recent study by Purdue University. Matthew Bailey, a grad student at the university, discussed the...
... IBDV: Management obstacles and options
Apr 26, 2017PHT Editor
By Daral J. Jackwood, PhD
Professor, Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine
Food Animal Health Research Program
Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center
The Ohio State University
... Shortage of medications remains top issue for US turkey industry
Apr 24, 2017PHT Editor
A shortage of effective, FDA-approved medications is still the top health issue for the US turkey industry, according to a survey conducted by a turkey veterinarian.
... Antibiotic issues broaden poultry veterinarians’ role
Apr 18, 2017PHT Editor
By Philip A. Stayer, DVM, MS, ACPV
Corporate Veterinarian
Sanderson Farms, Inc.
... ‘Old bug’ with new name easily mistaken for E. coli peritonitis
Apr 12, 2017PHT Editor
Commercial chicken flocks that appear to have Escherichia coli peritonitis might actually be infected with a re-emerging old pathogen with a new name.
... Vaccination helping to reduce mortality rates from E. coli in France’s layer flocks
Apr 04, 2017PHT Editor
Four out of five health problems in layer flocks in France are related to Escherichia coli, according to Jocelyn Marguerie, DVM.
... Better accuracy, hatchability, protection seen in birds vaccinated with dual-needle system
Mar 27, 2017PHT Editor
Broiler studies demonstrate that a dual-needle
in ovo delivery system yields more accurate vaccine placement, better hatchability and better disease protection compared to a single-needle...
... 5 ABF health tips from Miller Poultry
Mar 08, 2017PHT Editor
Miller Poultry — an Indiana-based producer with more than 15 years' experience raising broilers without antibiotics — offers tips for ensuring a strong, healthy and efficient bird.
... Avian influenza in the US: High-path, low-path and its link to other poultry diseases
Mar 07, 2017PHT Editor
David Swayne, DVM, PhD, a research veterinarian at USDA with more than 30 years' experience with avian influenza, talks to Poultry Health Today about the dreaded virus — how it travels, the...
... New lasalocid MRLs relieve export restrictions for broilers
Feb 15, 2017PHT Editor
Broiler producers who want more diversity in their anticoccidial-rotation plan can now consider the ionophore lasalocid without worrying about it putting a damper on exports, says Jon Schaeffer, DVM,...
... Zoetis offering research funds for parasitic disease in poultry, other species
Feb 13, 2017Susan Spiegel
Zoetis is offering grants of up to $150,000 to find new approaches for controlling parasites in poultry and other species.
... Windrowing litter can reduce pressure from poultry viruses, insects and bacteria
Feb 05, 2017PHT Editor
Poultry producers looking to improve litter quality and flock health should consider windrowing — a practice that not only works to control ammonia in the reconditioned litter but also reduces...
... Inexperience leads to disaster in small specialty poultry flock
Feb 03, 2017PHT Editor
Disease and high mortality in a small Midwestern poultry operation demonstrate the consequences of inexperience coupled with the treatment restraints of organic farming, Patricia Wakenell, DVM, PhD,...
... Surveillance, careful vaccine selection tops “shoot-in-the-dark” strategy for IB control
Feb 02, 2017PHT Editor
Microbiologist Mark Jackwood, PhD, University of Georgia, urges producers not to “shoot in the dark” with infectious bronchitis vaccines and, instead, to focus on surveillance, monitoring and...
... Accessibility is key when storing VFDs at integrated companies
Jan 31, 2017PHT Editor
The best place for integrated companies to store veterinary feed directives (VFDs) should depend on whether they’re keeping hard or electronic copies.
... Cage-free hen housing: How far will the pendulum swing?
Jan 28, 2017PHT Editor
By John Brown, DVM
Senior Technical Services Veterinarian, Zoetis
... Poultry Health Today lines up video interviews with more than 30 poultry experts at IPPE
Jan 26, 2017PHT Editor
More than 30 poultry-health experts and trend watchers will be interviewed on camera over the next three days as part of Poultry Health Today’s news coverage of the 2017 International Production...
... Interpreting the language of the new VFD rule
Jan 25, 2017PHT Editor
In a candid 90-minute interview, William Flynn, DVM, MS, deputy director for science and policy for FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine, clarified some hazy points of the new veterinary feed...
... Exploring the cause of condemnations can reduce losses
Jan 25, 2017PHT Editor
When carcasses are rejected at processing, all the time and money that went into production is lost. Couple that with even slight increases in the condemnation rate, and the losses really mount.
... Research: Highly pathogenic AI does not persist in wild birds
Jan 25, 2017PHT Editor
While the H5 avian influenza A virus that devastated some Midwestern poultry farms in 2014 to 2015 was initially spread by migratory waterfowl, evidence now suggests that highly pathogenic flu...
... Early SE infection likely to stay with broilers until market age
Jan 25, 2017PHT Editor
Broilers with lung exposure to Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) on the day of hatch are very likely to be positive for the pathogen at market age, say investigators.
... E. coli infection: Two types in broilers
Jan 25, 2017PHT Editor
While infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) remains a serious threat to broiler health, it often opens the door to costlier secondary E. coli infection.
... Early feeding, housing may affect broiler response to immune challenges
Jan 25, 2017PHT Editor
Early feeding after hatch and the housing type can affect the response of broilers to immune challenges later in life, indicates a study from the Netherlands.
... Fast growth seen for ABF poultry production, but for how long?
Jan 24, 2017PHT Editor
To see how the antibiotic-free (ABF) production trend is playing out with producers’ plans, Poultry Health Today turned to Greg Rennier, PhD, a poultry-market research specialist who tracks product...
... View from Europe on ABF
Jan 24, 2017PHT Editor
Striving for responsible antibiotic use may be a better strategy than going 100% antibiotic-free, according to a gut-disease specialist.
... NCC to food industry and consumers: Go slow on slower-growing chickens
Jan 12, 2017PHT Editor
The National Chicken Council is urging food-service and retail industries, non-governmental organizations and consumers to go slow on the slow-growth chicken trend before evaluating its potential...
... Plant inspectors help poultry industry monitor welfare
Jan 05, 2017PHT Editor
Processors understand that the humane treatment of chickens during processing is simply the right thing to do. It also is the law.
... AAAP: Woody breast, similar broiler-muscle conditions not linked to infectious pathogens or food safety
Dec 22, 2016PHT Editor
Three well-defined, degenerative breast diseases of broiler chickens — woody breast, white striping and deep pectoral myopathy — are not associated with infectious or pathogenic agents, nor do...
... AAAP issues statement on misleading marketing claim for chicken
Dec 22, 2016PHT Editor
So, which chicken is healthier and safer for consumers — the brand with the no-nonsense label or the premium brand that claims its chickens were “raised without added hormones”?
... Poultry companies need to balance consumer preferences with flock health, welfare and food safety
Dec 19, 2016PHT Editor
Suzanne Dougherty, DVM, a consulting poultry veterinarian based in Alabama, talks with Poultry Health Today about the challenges of reducing or even eliminating antibiotics in broiler production...
... NCC scientist: Food safety is everyone’s job
Dec 15, 2016PHT Editor
Food safety is a chain stretching from producers to consumers. Ashley Peterson, PhD, of the National Chicken Council, shared her insights at the recent “Young Chicken Gross Pathology Workshop” at...
... Addressing consumers’ misconceptions about antibiotic use in poultry
Dec 15, 2016PHT Editor
Gary Thornton, editor of Poultry USA, talks about the importance and the challenges of communicating with consumers about the role of antibiotics in poultry production.
... What’s your poultry farm’s carbon footprint?
Dec 08, 2016PHT Editor
As environmentalists monitor the role agriculture plays in greenhouse-gas emissions, all poultry producers need to get a handle on their farm’s carbon footprint, says Claudia Dunkley, PhD,...
... Video provides practical biosecurity tips for poultry
Nov 12, 2016PHT Editor
A training video that provides practical biosecurity tips for protecting commercial poultry flocks from avian influenza and other infectious diseases has been developed by the University of Maryland...
... The Poultry Smith
Nov 02, 2016PHT Editor
In this exclusive interview with Poultry Health Today, Fieldale Farms veterinarian John Smith reflects on his career, the state of the US poultry industry and, most importantly, what it needs to do...
... Spooked by the VFD? Visit the VFD News Center
Oct 27, 2016PHT Editor
Veterinarians, feed-mill managers and producers haunted by the new veterinary feed directive (VFD) rules don’t need to hire paranormal investigators to chase away their fears.
... Backyard flocks biggest risk for spreading vvIBDV in US
Oct 17, 2016PHT Editor
By
Daral J. Jackwood, PhD
Professor, Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine
Food Animal Health Research Program
Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center
The Ohio State University
... Biosecurity in poultry production: What makes it work — and what doesn’t
Oct 09, 2016PHT Editor
By Jean-Pierre Vaillancourt, DMV, MSc, PhD
Professor, director
Research Group on the Epidemiology of Zoonoses and Public Health
Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire
Associate director
Université...
... FDA: Some antibiotics still OK for production purposes
Oct 05, 2016PHT Editor
New FDA guidelines that discourage using medically important antibiotics for promoting growth in food animals appear to have been well-received by both producers and most consumer activists. Change...
... The case for ionophores: How they’re different from other antibiotics — and why it matters
Sep 21, 2016PHT Editor
Unlike other classes of antibiotics, ionophores are not considered important to human health by top public health and regulatory agencies.
... Condemnations, mortality shift focus to E. coli vaccination in some broiler flocks
Sep 16, 2016PHT Editor
While infectious bronchitis remains a serious threat to broiler health, it often opens the door to the more costly secondary infection, E coli, explained Kalen Cookson, DVM, director of clinical...
... Rigorous surveillance imperative to prevent spread of avian influenza
Sep 13, 2016PHT Editor
The enormous economic threat that avian influenza (AI) poses to the global poultry industry, coupled with its potential for evolution into zoonotic forms that threaten people, underscore the need for...
... Anticoccidial rotation, good husbandry can improve coccidiosis control
Aug 16, 2016PHT Editor
Poultry producers worldwide know the importance of cutting losses from coccidiosis – the parasitic disease that is still causing significant losses in growth rate and feed efficiency.
... AAAP inducts 27 avian medicine professionals into new Hall of Honor
Aug 15, 2016PHT Editor
The American Association of Avian Pathologists (AAAP) this week announced the first 27 inductees into the association’s newly formed Hall of Honor.
... Hens in enriched colony system appear more stressed, flighty
Aug 05, 2016PHT Editor
Hens in an enriched colony system were more stressed and flighty than conventionally caged birds in a study from Mississippi State and Texas A&M Universities.
... Managing ionophores and diets for best performance
Jul 31, 2016PHT Editor
Carla Price, PhD, a consulting poultry nutritionist based in Mississippi, says that for best results, producers need to consider differences in ionophores when formulating poultry feeds.
... S. enteritidis shedding more frequent among hens in conventional cages
Jul 24, 2016PHT Editor
Fecal shedding of Salmonella enteritidis was significantly more frequent among experimentally infected laying hens in conventional cages compared to hens housed in enriched colony cages, indicates a...
... Integrated poultry companies can store VFDs in one place
Jul 15, 2016PHT Editor
Integrated poultry companies that obtain a veterinary feed directive from a staff veterinarian for use in company-owned feed mills and flocks can store the VFD forms in one place.
... Broiler study shows challenges and potential of drug-free production
Jul 08, 2016PHT Editor
Broilers raised in a drug-free program had a higher feed-conversion ratio (FCR), decreased mean daily weight and decreased mean live marketing weight despite administration of antibiotic
... Mathis: Long-term planning key to effective coccidiosis management
Jul 07, 2016PHT Editor
Whether the production system is antibiotic-free or conventional, long-term planning and strategic rotation programs are the best ways to ensure effective, sustainable control of coccidiosis, the...
... Four tips for taking the lead on the animal-welfare conversation
Jul 03, 2016PHT Editor
By Carla Price, PhD
CJP Nutrition
Ellisville, Miss.
... Talking with customers about antibiotic use and other poultry-production practices
Jun 14, 2016PHT Editor
Today’s consumers face a bewildering array of labels and marketing claims when purchasing poultry products — particularly as it relates to antibiotics.
... Successful Marek’s disease vaccination: The devil is in the details
Jun 14, 2016PHT Editor
By Don Ritter, DVM, ACPV
Senior Director of Health Services and Food Safety
Mountaire Farms Inc.
... Bill Gates leading drive to buy chicken flocks for impoverished families
Jun 14, 2016PHT Editor
If you were living on $2 a day, what would you do to improve your life? If you’re Bill Gates, you'd raise chickens.
... USDA awards Zoetis latest contract to build stockpile of avian flu vaccines
Jun 09, 2016PHT Editor
USDA awarded its latest contract for avian influenza vaccines to Zoetis, a leading developer and marketer of vaccines and other health products for the poultry, livestock and companion animal...
... Tyson vet shares experiences with antibiotic-free broilers
Jun 02, 2016PHT Editor
Producing Salmonella-free chicks without antibiotics is a delicate procedure — sort of a little like baking a cake, says Scott Gustin, DVM, director of veterinary services for Tyson.
... New FDA guidelines: Rating an animal antibiotic’s importance to humans
May 25, 2016wpengine
The new industry guidelines issued by the US Food and Drug Administration in December suggest removing performance claims from food-animal antimicrobials deemed “medically important” to humans...
... Water pressure: How does it affect broilers’ consumption, performance?
May 23, 2016PHT Editor
Low-pressure water systems designed to reduce water usage have some poultry growers turning up the pressure to hydrate flocks and improve bird performance, but is this a sound practice economically?
... Five opportunities to optimize gut health, minimize necrotic enteritis in broilers
May 16, 2016PHT Editor
By Suzanne Dougherty, DVM, MAM, MS, DACPV
Pecking Around Consulting, Inc.
Madison, Ala.
... Still confused about VFDs? Panel brings clarity to new rules
May 11, 2016PHT Editor
More than 1,000 representatives from the US poultry and livestock industries attended a recent webinar to get a better handle on the FDA’s new rules for the Veterinary Feed Directive (VFD).
... IBD vaccination: HVT vector vaccine or live?
May 10, 2016PHT Editor
By Kalen Cookson, DVM, MAM
Director of clinical research
Zoetis Inc.
... Judicious antibiotic use: What does it mean in poultry?
Apr 29, 2016PHT Editor
By
Dennis P. Wages, DVM, Dipl. ACPV
Professor, Poultry Health Management
Department of Population Health and Pathobiology
College of Veterinary Medicine — North Carolina State University
... Alternative treatments for necrotic enteritis: Has CQR’s Steve Davis found the ‘silver bullet’?
Apr 29, 2016PHT Editor
For years Steve Davis, DVM, of Colorado Quality Research had been looking for what he calls the "silver bullet" for managing NE in broilers without antibiotics.
... Necrotic enteritis in broilers: Disease or syndrome?
Apr 26, 2016PHT Editor
Steve Davis, DVM, of Colorado Quality Research, talks about emerging virulent strains of Clostridium perfringens and their impact on the prevalence severity of necrotic enteritis in broilers.
... AAAP: Poultry health, welfare ‘should not be sacrificed in the name of marketing’
Apr 26, 2016PHT Editor
Antibiotic use in poultry should be minimized through carefully planned and well-executed preventive practices, according to to a new position statement released by the American Association of Avian...
... Field vaccination for respiratory disease: spray or pump?
Apr 14, 2016PHT Editor
By Philip A. Stayer, DVM
Corporate Veterinarian
Sanderson Farms, Inc.
... IBD V877 vaccine can break through maternal antibodies
Apr 10, 2016PHT Editor
A live infectious bursal disease (IBD) vaccine based on the V877 strain can override maternal antibodies, doesn’t revert to virulence and has limited interactions with other live vaccines.
... Meeting the new USDA/FSIS standards for Salmonella and Campylobacter in poultry
Apr 10, 2016PHT Editor
USDA/FSIS issued new standards for Salmonella and Campylobacter in ground poultry meat and chicken and turkey parts.
... Mountaire veterinarian discusses managing E. coli in broilers in the face of IBV infection
Apr 07, 2016PHT Editor
Don Ritter, DVM, of Mountaire Farms, details the company’s recent bout with IB in broilers and the costly secondary infection of E. coli that followed.
... Live E. coli, Salmonella vaccines remained effective when used together in challenge study
Apr 06, 2016PHT Editor
Administration of a modified-live Escherichia coli vaccine along with a live Salmonella vaccine does not appear to affect the efficacy of either, indicate the results of a recent challenge study.[1]...
... Changes ahead: Everything you need to know about the new guidelines for oral antimicrobials
Apr 05, 2016wpengine
The US poultry industry has already shown that it knows how to use antimicrobials judiciously. In this special report, Poultry Health Today editors take an in-depth look at what FDA calls Guidance...
... Randall Singer: Therapeutics and antibiotic resistance
Apr 03, 2016PHT Editor
By Randall S. Singer, DVM, MPVM, PhD
Department of Veterinary and Biomedial Sciences
University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN
... USDA issues conditional license to Zoetis for avian flu vaccine
Mar 30, 2016PHT Editor
USDA has granted Zoetis a conditional license for its killed-virus avian influenza vaccine (H5N1 subtype).
... Study shows value of E. coli vaccine in chickens
Mar 30, 2016PHT Editor
A live Escherichia coli vaccine provided a high level of protection to chickens challenged with the same E. coli strain as well as cross-protection against a different strain in a recent study...
Announcements, Antibiotic Management, Antibiotic-free, Flock welfare, Gut Health, Infectious Diseases, ippe2016 - Highlights from our latest issue, Mobile Only, News, PHT GLOBAL, PHT US, Safe Poultry
... Specialists explore new options for managing flock health while defending judicious antibiotic use
Mar 27, 2016PHT Editor
Growing demand for poultry raised without food-animal antibiotics has put more pressure on veterinarians to find alternative yet dependable disease-control options, according to a panel of nine...
... VFD News Center targets poultry vets, feed-mill managers, producers
Mar 16, 2016PHT Editor
Zoetis has teamed up with the editors of Poultry Health Today to produce the VFD News Center — an online news hub to help the US poultry industry prepare for the new veterinary feed directive...
... Thinking about going antibiotic-free? Expert panel offers insights, suggestions
Mar 10, 2016PHT Editor
Broiler and turkey companies need to think carefully and weigh all the possible impacts before considering a move to antibiotic-free production, said poultry health experts at a panel discussion held...
... AAAP supports veterinarians’ rights to treat sick poultry with FDA-approved antibiotics
Feb 22, 2016PHT Editor
The AAAP “strongly supports” the rights of licensed veterinarians to treat sick poultry and other food-producing animals with FDA-approved antibiotics that prevent pain and suffering, according...
... Candid camera: Undercover videos on rise in poultry industry
Feb 03, 2016PHT Editor
Undercover videos of poultry farms made by animal activists appear to be on the rise, Mark Crouser, a consultant to the Center for Food Integrity (CFI), reported at the recent National Meeting on...
... Latest edition of Poultry Health Today magazine now available to download
Jan 26, 2016PHT Editor
ATLANTA, Jan. 26 — The latest edition of Poultry Health Today magazine is now available to download.
... Poultry Health Today launches mobile app
Jan 24, 2016PHT Editor
Poultry Health Today, the world’s only magazine, newsletter and website focused entirely on flock health, welfare and sustainability, has partnered with sponsor Zoetis to launch a mobile app for...
... Can we learn from Denmark?
Jan 21, 2016PHT Editor
Proponents of antibiotic-free production often cite the experience in Denmark as “Exhibit A” in their argument against the use of antimicrobials in poultry and livestock feed.
... Marketing vs. Medicine: Finding the balance
Jan 21, 2016PHT Editor
Growing demand for poultry raised without food-animal antibiotics has put more pressure on veterinarians to find alternative yet dependable disease-control options, according to a panel of nine...
... ‘Vets on Call’ video series visits major US egg producer
Jan 20, 2016PHT Editor
The health and welfare of laying hens at Rose Acre Farms —the second largest egg producer in the US — is the subject of a two-part video of the popular “Vets on Call” YouTube series.
... Avian flu back in spotlight with new cases in Indiana
Jan 18, 2016PHT Editor
USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has confirmed the presence of H7N8 avian influenza in nine flocks in southwestern Indiana — the first in the US since June 2015.
... Salmonella prevention requires teamwork between production and processing
Jan 16, 2016PHT Editor
Identifying the pathways of Salmonella contamination has poultry producers and processors looking for answers in every step of the process from the farm to table.
... Educating growers improves broiler biosecurity
Jan 14, 2016PHT Editor
An outreach program in the poultry-intense Delmarva region is helping growers improve biosecurity and protect flocks from potentially devastating disease.
... Pathways to protection: How one vaccine decision can affect options for managing other diseases in broilers
Jan 07, 2016PHT Editor
Broiler operations want to provide the best disease protection for the least cost, but deciding which vaccines to use and when can be a daunting task.
... E. coli vaccine stable when rehydrated with diverse water types or combined with coccidiosis vaccine
Jan 06, 2016PHT Editor
A modified-live Escherichia coli vaccine remained “extremely” stable when rehydrated with diverse types of water and when it was combined with a coccidiosis vaccine, indicate the results of a...
... Canada studies find no links between ionophores, resistance of other antibiotics
Dec 29, 2015PHT Editor
One of the few studies about antibiotic resistance and ionophores in poultry was published by Canadian researchers in 2007 who found that isolates showing resistance to multiple antibiotics can be...
... Shift and drift affect broiler vaccination decisions
Dec 16, 2015PHT Editor
Few viruses in poultry remain static over long periods of time. Slight genetic shifts or mutations that occur during replication result in a genetic code drift away from the original virus. Over...
... 80% of Americans wrongly believe chicken contains hormones, steroids
Dec 16, 2015PHT Editor
Nearly 80% of Americans mistakenly believe that chicken contains added hormones or steroids, when in fact no chicken sold or raised in the US is given hormones or steroids, according to a survey by...
... HPAI spread by poor biosecurity
Dec 15, 2015PHT Editor
The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) recently released an updated epidemiology report outlining its findings on the spread of the highly pathogenic AI through June 5.
... Preventing infection, dehydration helps ensure good chick quality
Dec 10, 2015PHT Editor
By Philip A. Stayer, DVM
Corporate Veterinarian, Sanderson Farms, Inc.
... Wet litter, footpad dermatitis tied to reduced broiler performance
Nov 15, 2015PHT Editor
Increased litter moisture not only led to severe footpad dermatitis (FPD) in broilers, it reduced other aspects of animal welfare and negatively affected performance and carcass yield.
... Three more broiler diseases you can manage with vaccination
Nov 11, 2015PHT Editor
There's more to poultry health than Marek's, IBD, ILT and ND. Vaccines also play major roles in curbing these common diseases.
... Breaches in biosecurity: Sanderson Farms vet shares three valuable lessons
Nov 05, 2015PHT Editor
By Philip A. Stayer, DVM
Corporate Veterinarian, Sanderson Farms, Inc.
... New coccidiosis-management initiative aims to reduce losses
Oct 14, 2015wpengine
Targeting the global poultry industry’s more than $3 billion in annual losses to coccidiosis, Zoetis Inc. introduced a new, science-based initiative to help poultry producers worldwide develop...
... Fine-tuning rotation plan can improve coccidiosis management
Sep 29, 2015PHT Editor
Broiler producers have made important strides in managing coccidiosis but could further improve control and cut losses by rethinking their strategy for anticoccidial rotation, say veterinarians who...
... Are ionophores antibiotics? That depends on whom you ask
Sep 28, 2015PHT Editor
In the EU — a market often perceived to be less tolerant of antibiotic use in food animals than the US — antibiotics used for growth promotion were banned in 2006. However, certain ionophores,...
... Ionophores: The price of elimination
Sep 28, 2015PHT Editor
Published reports indicate that poultry operations not using any type of antibiotic, including ionophores, are indeed experiencing setbacks in production and flock welfare.
... Complex broiler-vaccine decisions require expert advice
Sep 28, 2015PHT Editor
Developing a vaccination program targeting optimal performance and return requires more planning and expertise than local “experts” at the farm store can offer.
... High stocking density predisposes broilers to NE
Sep 28, 2015PHT Editor
High stocking density has adverse effects on broiler welfare and intestinal health and predisposes the birds to necrotic enteritis (NE), according to the results of an experiment conducted by...
... Sanderson’s Phil Stayer: ‘Sustainability is really nothing new for poultry’
Sep 20, 2015PHT Editor
Maintaining good intestinal health is particularly important for sustainability because the condition of the gut ultimately determines a flock’s growth rate and feed conversion.
... ‘Rotate smarter,’ says coccidiosis specialist
Sep 19, 2015PHT Editor
Poultry producers need to “rotate smarter” and learn the differences between anticoccidials if they want to maintain effective and sustainable coccidiosis-management programs, says well-known...
... Sustainability: What on earth does it really mean? And how does it apply to poultry health?
Sep 10, 2015PHT Editor
In the poultry industry, sustainability trends are reshaping every link in the production chain. But what exactly does it mean for poultry to be “sustainable”?
... Sustainability: What does it mean to poultry health?
Aug 27, 2015PHT Editor
In agriculture, sustainability translates to producing more with less — a goal that morphs into a dire need when looking at global population trends. According to a recent UN report, food...
... Eight ways to protect your farm from avian flu this fall
Aug 25, 2015PHT Editor
To prepare for the avian flu this fall, the National Chicken Council (NCC) has identified eight biosecurity principles for broiler and broiler-breeder producers.
... British vets question health, welfare of free-range chickens
Aug 25, 2015PHT Editor
While activists tout the happier, healthier life of free-range chickens, veterinarians in Great Britain have expressed concern about their long-term sustainability and increased likelihood of a major...
... Vets treat chickens to prevent foodborne illness
Aug 18, 2015PHT Editor
In the latest episode of Vets on Call, Dr. Pohl and Dr. Chuck Hofacre of the University of Georgia visit a broiler farm to examine the flock’s response to a vaccine.
... Poultry vets are latest focus of popular YouTube series
Aug 16, 2015PHT Editor
The popular YouTube series, Veterinarians on Call, recently turned its cameras on two poultry veterinarians from the University of Georgia to help educate the public on modern poultry production.
... Reducing false positives pays in ELISA mycoplasma testing
Aug 05, 2015PHT Editor
Poultry producers should consider specificity when selecting a Mycoplasma ELISA test to avoid costs associated with false positives.
... Got maxima? New sampling procedure aids detection in broilers
Aug 04, 2015PHT Editor
A modified sampling procedure developed by researchers at Zoetis Inc. has dramatically improved the detection of Eimeria maxima infection in broilers.
... Flu panel examines US control efforts, impacts on trade
Aug 02, 2015PHT Editor
With well over 200 outbreaks affecting more than 47 million poultry over the last six months, highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) is hitting the US poultry industry hard.
... Zoetis to expand biodevice solutions for poultry industry with acquisition of hatchery-automation company
Jul 31, 2015wpengine
Zoetis Inc. announced an agreement to acquire KL Products, Inc. to strengthen automation technology for poultry hatchery operations.
... Coccidiosis research yielding new perspectives on AST
Jul 30, 2015PHT Editor
Adding molecular biology (PCR) to anticoccidial sensitivity testing (AST), offers a more in-depth look — and surprising findings — of Eimeria species contributing to coccidiosis in poultry...
... Reality check: Technically, all poultry in the US is ‘antibiotic-free’
Jul 19, 2015PHT Editor
Confidently presenting facts can go a long way toward shaping consumer opinions about commercial poultry production and the importance of maintaining flock health, welfare and efficiency. For this...
... Pathogens on farm and in processing related
Jul 13, 2015wpengine
Salmonella and Campylobacter prevalence and loads on the farm are significantly associated with prevalence and loads of the same pathogens at processing.
... Judicious drug use: The good, the bad and the ugly
Jun 29, 2015wpengine
According to FDA, judicious use means administering an antimicrobial drug appropriately — and only when necessary.
... FDA Releases Biannual Progress Report on Judicious Use of Antimicrobials in Food-producing Animals
Jun 22, 2015PHT Editor
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced today its second progress report on its strategy to promote the judicious use of antimicrobials in food-producing animals.
... Prevention claims essential for ensuring flock health, welfare
Jun 16, 2015PHT Editor
New FDA guidelines that discourage using medically important antibiotics for promoting growth in food animals appear to have been well-received by both producers and most consumer activists.
... FDA issues rule requiring veterinary supervision of medically important antimicrobials
Jun 02, 2015PHT Editor
The US Food and Drug Administration announced today its final rule for the Veterinary Feed Directive (VFD) — a move that is said to be “an important piece of the agency’s overall strategy to...
... Poultry vet reviews nuts and bolts of FDA’s new antimicrobial guidelines
May 29, 2015wpengine
FDA recently rolled out new voluntary guidelines for antimicrobial usage in poultry and livestock — not just how the medications are categorized and prescribed, but also how, when and why they...
... What’s causing ‘woody breast’ in poultry?
May 28, 2015PHT Editor
A condition known as “woody breast” is puzzling US poultry scientists investigating why breast-muscle tissue from some broiler flocks is hard and tough instead of tender and juicy.
... Walmart, Sam’s Club announce new animal welfare, antibiotic positions
May 27, 2015PHT Editor
Walmart and Sam’s Club recently announced new positions on animal welfare and the responsible use of antibiotics in farm animals.
... Ammonia concentration versus ventilation rate
May 26, 2015PHT Editor
Monitoring ammonia levels in poultry houses can help producers to adjust ventilation rates and thus prevent problems.
... Poultry vet urges poultry producers to guard against E. coli
May 21, 2015PHT Editor
Long regarded as a secondary infection to respiratory disease, E. coli is now rated as a primary infection in many layer and broiler-breeder flocks, according to Jose Linares, DVM and technical...
... Experience with GA 08 provides valuable information about IBV variants in poultry
May 08, 2015PHT Editor
Experience with Georgia 2008 (GA 08) — the infectious bronchitis variant that’s caused major economic losses for poultry producers in the Southeast — has provided valuable information that will...
... Media consultant: Let poultry vets tell the antibiotic story
May 07, 2015PHT Editor
The U.S. poultry industry needs to do a better job telling its story about antibiotics and their role in sustainable production and flock welfare, according to Frank Singleton, a media consultant...
... Leading welfare, food-safety groups urge chicken Industry to reduce antibiotics responsibly
May 05, 2015PHT Editor
ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) and Center for Food Safety: "Eliminating the routine use of [antibiotics] without addressing the birds’ underlying health problems...
... Poultry specialist offers tips for managing gut health through better nutrition
Apr 30, 2015PHT Editor
Nutritionist Brett Lumpkins, PhD, of Southern Poultry Research, Athens, Georgia, talks about antibiotic-free poultry production, the challenges it presents and how rations can be adjusted for better...
