Antibiotic-free
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Automation key to ensuring sanitation in ‘no antibiotics ever’ systems
Labor shortages in hatcheries mean that to ensure appropriate levels of sanitation in “no antibiotics ever” production, wholesale automation is likely to be required.
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Live-vaccine program a ‘must have’ to deal with cage-free E. coli challenge
A higher risk of bacterial challenges in cage-free egg production means a live-vaccination program against Escherichia coli is a “must-have minimum” for flocks reared in alternative systems.
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Shift to cage-free egg production prompts need to revise health and management plans
Vaccinations and other preventative health measures are more critical than ever as the US egg industry shifts toward cage-free and no-antibiotics-ever production.
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Hatchery tips for successful transition to NAE production
Preventing birds from getting sick is perhaps the biggest challenge encountered when transitioning from conventional to “no antibiotics ever” (NAE) production.
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Better management, biosecurity could mean lower Salmonella levels in NAE farms
New research has suggested that Salmonella levels in no-antibiotics-ever (NAE) poultry systems could be lower than those on conventional broiler farms.
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Good management and biosecurity vital to overcoming disease challenges in NAE systems
Getting back to basics with bird and house management is key to overcoming coccidiosis and other health issues affecting producers using NAE systems.
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Coccidiosis in conventional flocks presenting a significant challenge
A shift in microbiology could be responsible for a surge in coccidiosis problems being seen in conventional US broiler and pullets flocks, according to Pilgrim's DVM Suzanne Dougherty.
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Glutamine supplement shows promise in reducing necrotic enteritis
Supplementing poultry diets with glutamine could help reduce the severity of necrotic enteritis (NE), according to researchers.
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Chick quality vital to no-antibiotics-ever success, consultant says
Focusing on chick quality from the moment eggs enter the incubator is critical to ensuring birds have the best chance of being healthy and productive in no-antibiotics-ever (NAE) systems.
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Good flock management key to managing Mycoplasma synoviae resurgence
Broiler producers need to take a fresh look at housing conditions and bird management to help counter the resurgence of Mycoplasma synoviae linked to an increase in raised without antibiotics (RWA)...
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Coccidiosis control: Keys to success with a bioshuttle program
Resistance is unlikely to be a problem in coccidiosis bioshuttle programs, Greg Mathis, PhD, Southern Poultry Research, told Poultry Health Today.
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Necrotic enteritis control requires multi-pronged approach in RWA systems
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),...
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Helping contract growers’ transition to no-antibiotics-ever broiler production
Successful transition from conventional to no-antibiotics-ever (NAE) broiler production requires awareness of all the changes needed and lots of advance planning.
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Ensuring chick quality in NAE production
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.
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Pilgrim’s veterinarian shares experiences with NAE production
Preparation, meticulous attention to sanitation and improved communication with hatchery staff and growers are critical for NAE production.
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Life without antibiotics: Field lessons learned the hard way
Producers need to think long and hard before jumping into “no antibiotics ever” (NAE) poultry production.
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Sanitation key to successful NAE production
The key to successful “no antibiotics ever” (NAE) broiler production is cleanliness throughout every step of production, including a pristine hatchery.
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Coccidiosis control, litter management key to NE prevention in broilers raised without antibiotics
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.
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E. coli becoming more common with rise in ‘no antibiotics ever’ programs
With the removal of antibiotics in the hatchery in “no antibiotics ever” (NAE) programs, the bacterium Escherichia coli is becoming more of a problem at many broiler complexes.
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Team effort by human, animal sectors needed to ensure responsible antibiotic use worldwide
While the poultry and livestock sectors have drawn the ire of consumer and medical groups for the growth of antimicrobial resistance, it is wrong to “partition blame,” Randy Singer, DVM, PhD,...
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Industry trendwatcher offers insights on future of antibiotic-free poultry production
Industry trendwatcher and analyst Greg Rennier, PhD, recently sat down with Poultry Health Today to share his thoughts on antibiotic-free production and where the poultry industry is heading in 2017...
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Antibiotic-free poultry production: Is it sustainable on a large scale?
Phil Stayer, DVM, head veterinarian at Sanderson Farms, is worried about what he calls an "anti-technology movement" directed at the US poultry industry, particularly as it relates to veterinary care...
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Non-ionophore anticoccidial may help manage necrotic enteritis in RWA flocks
Flocks raised without antibiotics (RWA) that received a non-ionophore anticoccidial after coccidiosis vaccination had fewer necrotic enteritis (NE) lesions, less mortality and better feed conversion...
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Necrotic enteritis: Can it be managed effectively in NAE flocks?
Necrotic enteritis (NE) is not only a big problem in flocks raised without antibiotics, there’s a wide variation in how it presents itself, Steve Davis, DVM, president of Colorado Quality Research,...
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Poultry veterinarians facing new challenges with NAE trend, food safety guidelines
The NAE production movement has helped reduce antibiotic use in poultry for good reason, but veterinarians need to make sure the pendulum doesn’t swing so far they have no antibiotics left to...
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Managing coccidiosis successfully in poultry raised without antibiotics
Producers raising flocks without antibiotics are finding new ways to manage gut health and coccidiosis with vaccination and anticoccidials, said Greg Mathis, PhD, coccidiosis specialist.
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Finding the right balance with antibiotics and flock welfare
Part 3: The issue of antibiotics in poultry continues to divide the poultry industry, with one side supporting routine preventive use and the other committed to raising birds without antibiotics.
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Veteran poultry scientist optimistic about managing necrotic enteritis in NAE flocks
The trend toward “no antibiotics ever” (NAE) poultry production has no doubt spawned problems with necrotic enteritis (NE), but the industry is making progress in its search for alternative...
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Getting the hatchery ready for ‘No Antibiotics Ever’ production
Sanitation is the key to success when a hatchery completely removes antibiotics from its process, Josh Mulkey told Poultry Health Today.
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Managing coccidia ‘leakage’ in antibiotic-free production systems
The US broiler industry has long relied on coccidial leakage to create immunity against coccidiosis in chickens. In antibiotic-free production systems, leakage occurs but can be more challenging to...
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Mountaire stands on middle ground in antibiotic debate
While the all-or-nothing debate about the use of antibiotics in commercial poultry continues, Mountaire Farms is standing on solid middle ground, said Don Ritter, DVM.
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Mathis: Long-term planning key to effective coccidiosis management
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...
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Tyson vet shares experiences with antibiotic-free broilers
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.
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Sanderson Farms vet shares views on sustainability, antibiotic-free and FDA’s new antimicrobial guidelines
Antibiotic-free poultry production is creating ethical conflicts for veterinarians while raising questions about sustainability, animal welfare and the industry’s ability to feed a growing...
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Alternative treatments for necrotic enteritis: Has CQR’s Steve Davis found the ‘silver bullet’?
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.
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Necrotic enteritis: In search of the silver bullet
Steve Davis, DVM, of Colorado Quality Research says there’s no “silver bullet” for managing necrotic enteritis in broilers and shares his observations from recent studies.
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Balancing consumers’ preferences with flock health, welfare and food safety
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...
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Antibiotic-free production: Tips for making it work
After following trends in antibiotic-free production over the past several years, Tim Cummings, DVM, has identified a few production practices worth incorporating.
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Poultry specialist offers tips for managing gut health through better nutrition
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...
Environment
Educating consumers
Flock welfare
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Back-to-basics for managing health of cage-free pullets
Poultry producers with cage-free pullet systems should go back to the basics of bird management to keep their flocks healthy and productive.
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Circulation fans reduce severity of footpad dermatitis
Footpad dermatitis causes significant foot problems for broilers, which adversely affects bird welfare and the market for broiler paws, according to research from the University of Maryland.
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Distinctive condition affects layers as well as turkeys, broilers
A disease commonly seen in turkey and broiler flocks can also affect layers, meaning that producers should look out for its distinctive signs.
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Bugs should be a key focus of biosecurity in controlling turkey disease
Producers should play close attention to insect control in their poultry houses to avoid cases of turkey coronavirus enteritis (TCE).
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How effective IBV surveillance can prevent ‘overvaccination’
Consistent surveillance and analysis of infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) at poultry production facilities can guard against “overvaccination” — where too much vaccine virus in the environment...
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Shedding light on LED lamps and dimmers: They’re not all a match
Getting the correct lighting is important in poultry houses to help maximize the birds’ genetic potential; however, too often there’s a disconnect between the LED lamps and the dimmers in...
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Agreed indicators should help drive poultry-industry welfare
Using key welfare indicators (KWIs) can help fill a communication gap around welfare progress in the US poultry industry.
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Farm mortality issues highlight importance of checking water supply
Producers need to be alert to the dangers of drinking-water toxicity issues, according to a senior industry veterinarian.
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Environmental enrichments increased broiler activity in study
Environmental enrichments in broiler houses may improve bird welfare by increasing natural behaviors, according to a University of Maryland study.
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Study: Day length during brooding did not impact broiler performance
Extended day length during the brooding period is thought to benefit broilers’ long-term performance and well-being. However, a University of Georgia study has re-evaluated that idea.
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Live-vaccine program a ‘must have’ to deal with cage-free E. coli challenge
A higher risk of bacterial challenges in cage-free egg production means a live-vaccination program against Escherichia coli is a “must-have minimum” for flocks reared in alternative systems.
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Managing layer health challenges as cage-free demand increases
In a special video from Poultry Health Today, experts from across the industry discuss the challenges facing producers who make the change from conventional systems to cage-free.
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COVID pandemic had some positive effects on poultry health and welfare
Management techniques adopted to cope with COVID-19 production challenges led to improvements in bird health and welfare for many poultry producers.
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Salmonella serotypes are changing — monitor which ones are in your flock
It’s imperative for poultry producers and companies to know what strains of Salmonella may be circulating in their flocks, said Chuck Hofacre, president of the Southern Poultry Research Group in...
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Recombinant vaccines for poultry: How to maximize results
Proper vaccine handling, dosage and administration are key to ensuring thorough and effective coverage. That statement is particularly true when talking about recombinant-vector vaccines.
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Why ‘vaccinated’ chickens still get infected with IBV — and what to do about it
While many vaccines and vaccination programs effectively protect against the highly contagious infectious bronchitis virus in poultry, outbreaks of the disease still occur in vaccinated flocks.
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Light impacts behavior in cage-free aviaries
Birds can move out of the reach of the workers’ hands in a multi-tier aviary system, so employees have to climb into the system to get to them. Researchers from Michigan State studied light...
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Poultry industry can learn from COVID-19
Biosecurity is not sufficient to control avian coronaviruses like infectious bronchitis in commercial poultry, no matter how good it is, said Mark Jackwood, PhD, a molecular virologist and professor...
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‘Competitive exclusion’ is potential benefit of live Salmonella vaccines in young birds
Live vaccines for Salmonella have been found to start offering protection within a few days of administration, acting “almost as a [form of] competitive exclusion,” said Chuck Hofacre, president...
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Poor IBV vaccine performance in broiler study underlines need for surveillance
A whole-complex study of broiler breeders in Georgia found underwhelming infectious bronchitis vaccine performance – but with better surveillance and protocols, outcomes could be improved.
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Sharing data can help manage layer-farm disease and increase production
Sharing and analyzing data at farm level and beyond can offer new insights that improve bird health and profitability on layer farms.
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Going with the flow: How to maximize the effectiveness of spray vaccination
Attention to detail is vital when it comes to ensuring that spray vaccinations against respiratory diseases such as infectious bronchitis are as effective as they can possibly be, according to...
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Measuring temperature of birds’ faces could help identify heat stress in flocks
Use of thermal imaging cameras to measure facial temperatures may offer a non-invasive option for assessing heat stress in commercial broilers, according to research from the University of Arkansas.
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Shift to cage-free egg production prompts need to revise health and management plans
Vaccinations and other preventative health measures are more critical than ever as the US egg industry shifts toward cage-free and no-antibiotics-ever production.
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Hatchery tips for successful transition to NAE production
Preventing birds from getting sick is perhaps the biggest challenge encountered when transitioning from conventional to “no antibiotics ever” (NAE) production.
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Control key to protecting flocks from more virulent, resistant E. coli
Research shows many strains of E. coli are capable of causing disease directly. And with antibiotic resistance on the rise, control and prevention are essential.
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Consider predominance of AL-2 variants when planning IBDV vaccination program
The AL-2 family of variants is the predominant strain of infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) circulating among US broiler flocks, according to a recent survey.
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Managing the health challenges of moving to free-range egg production
Free-range egg production will bring major challenges to the way birds are produced, but it will also mean big shifts in the ways bird health and welfare need to be managed.
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ND is stable in US but poultry industry should be on lookout for evolving strains
Newcastle disease throughout most of the US remains stable, but the industry needs to be on guard for changes in the virus that may require adaption of ND vaccines.
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Surveillance of circulating IBV types essential for disease control
Surveillance aimed at pinpointing the type of infectious bronchitis virus that’s circulating in poultry flocks is essential to control of the disease.
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Swift communication key to limiting the risk of poultry disease outbreaks
Excellent systems of communication between farm staff and veterinarians are critical when it comes to managing disease outbreaks and reducing their potential spread.
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Industry needs more poultry scientists to tackle disease challenges
More young people need to be encouraged to take up careers in poultry science if the sector is to properly tackle disease challenges which have plagued it for decades.
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Coccidiosis control: Keys to success with a bioshuttle program
Resistance is unlikely to be a problem in coccidiosis bioshuttle programs, Greg Mathis, PhD, Southern Poultry Research, told Poultry Health Today.
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Sentinel broilers, PCR testing help isolate, identify evolving IBV populations in Arkansas
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...
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Helping contract growers’ transition to no-antibiotics-ever broiler production
Successful transition from conventional to no-antibiotics-ever (NAE) broiler production requires awareness of all the changes needed and lots of advance planning.
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Better air circulation, moderately lower humidity improve paw quality
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.
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What makes a chick tick: Help non-farm audiences understand poultry’s needs
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...
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When vaccinating broilers against Salmonella may be worthwhile
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.
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Genomic sequencing could aid ILT control efforts in poultry
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,...
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Urban chicken movement requires legislators to learn chicken basics
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.
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Heat-stress study shows need to increase ventilation with stocking density
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...
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Chicks may hold clues to lameness in older birds
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.
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IBV vaccination protects broilers despite ammonia exposure
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.
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Uncertain supplies present challenges for rotation-minded producers
Poultry producers know the importance of developing a long-term strategy for maintaining the efficacy of anticoccidials, but sometimes unexpected backorders of feed medications in high demand force...
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Marek’s and Salmonella: John Smith, DVM, offers insights on two new broiler-vaccination trends
John Smith, DVM, poultry veterinarian for Alectryon in Baldwin, Georgia, shared ideas with Poultry Health Today on two changes in broiler-vaccination strategies in the US poultry industry.
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Putting paper under chick’s drinkers: Is it really helpful?
Placing paper under water lines increases water consumption by baby chicks, but only for the first 3 or 4 hours after house placement, research indicates.
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Let there be light: Early exposure to UV aids broiler behavior, performance
Adding windows to poultry houses is an inexpensive way to improve the environment for broilers and possibly improve productivity, according to Rachel Lynn Dennis, PhD, assistant professor at the...
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Footpad dermatitis a greater concern in chickens grown to older ages
Footpad dermatitis is more likely to be a problem among broilers grown to an older age, but it can be remedied if producers intervene in time, Tom Tabler, PhD, professor with Mississippi State...
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Vaccination followed with feed medication gives pullets added protection against coccidiosis
Inadequate coccidiosis protection in pullets can lead to health issues ranging from uneven weight gain to mortality.
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Biosecurity: ‘It doesn’t have to be boring’
Even though biosecurity is a critically important subject, many poultry producers tune it out — for the simple reason that it bores them, said Nathaniel Tablante, DVM, a professor and poultry...
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When lysine is too much of a good thing
Lysine hydrochloride is an essential amino acid used in poultry diets to help ensure balanced nutrition and flock performance. But as with anything else, it’s possible for birds to get too much of...
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Alternative therapies called best long-term hope for blackhead disease in turkeys
Alternative treatments may be the only long-term hope for managing blackhead in turkeys, said Robert Beckstead, PhD, turkey health specialist, North Carolina State University.
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Finding the right balance with antibiotics and flock welfare
Part 3: The issue of antibiotics in poultry continues to divide the poultry industry, with one side supporting routine preventive use and the other committed to raising birds without antibiotics.
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Poultry veterinarians need to be the ‘voice of the birds’
Veterinarians need to be more proactive and be the “voice of the birds” on issues related to health and well-being, according to Nancy Reimers, DVM, chair of the Animal Welfare Committee, AAAP.
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Should we tap the brakes on slow-growth chicken?
Consumers advocating the use of slow-growth chickens mistakenly assume these birds have better welfare conditions, said Terrence O’Keefe, editor and content director, Watt AgNet.
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Lapses in biosecurity: Veterinarian urges poultry companies to avoid these mistakes
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.
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Water pressure: How does it affect broilers’ consumption, performance?
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?
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Cage-free layers: Are ‘happier’ birds also healthier?
Leading egg producers in the US are pledging to go cage-free, but are happier layers necessarily healthier? John Brown, DVM, a veterinarian who specializes in layer health, shares his thoughts on the...
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Balancing consumers’ preferences with flock health, welfare and food safety
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...
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Sanderson Farms’ Phil Stayer: ‘Mortality is the first measure of wellbeing’
Phil Stayer, DVM, of Sanderson Farms says poultry health, welfare and sustainability should not be compromised for marketing purposes.
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A look at animal wellbeing in the poultry industry
Yvonne Vizzier Thaxton talks about animal wellbeing–the entire system of the animal including general health, behavior, nutrition, disease prevention–and how it contributes to...
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Should antibiotics be used to prevent disease in poultry?
Three veterinarians explain why they think it's a sensible and ethical thing to do with certain diseases.
Gut health
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Bugs should be a key focus of biosecurity in controlling turkey disease
Producers should play close attention to insect control in their poultry houses to avoid cases of turkey coronavirus enteritis (TCE).
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Coccidiosis: An old problem with some new challenges
Coccidiosis in broiler houses remains a nagging challenge. While clinical manifestations are rare, it’s the subclinical condition that impacts the flock through poor feed efficiency and reduced...
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Comparing necrotic enteritis litter models highlights performance impacts
Reused litter from a previous NE challenge led to more severe subclinical performance impacts but fewer clinical signs of disease than in birds raised on fresh litter.
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Feed additive appears to benefit gut integrity in broilers with coccidiosis
The feed additive sodium bisulfate administered to broilers during a coccidial challenge appeared to benefit gut integrity.
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Right skills critical to managing increases in Salmonella, coccidiosis associated with cage-free egg production
Producers making the switch to cage-free egg production need to ensure they are properly prepared for managing potential increases in Salmonella and other health challenges.
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Good management and biosecurity vital to overcoming disease challenges in NAE systems
Getting back to basics with bird and house management is key to overcoming coccidiosis and other health issues affecting producers using NAE systems.
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Good gut health starts before hatch, expert says
To establish good gut health, measures to promote a healthy microbiome can’t begin soon enough, an expert reports.
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Glutamine supplement shows promise in reducing necrotic enteritis
Supplementing poultry diets with glutamine could help reduce the severity of necrotic enteritis (NE), according to researchers.
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‘Causal’ pie chart can help manage necrotic enteritis
Use of a simple “causal” pie chart is proving to be a helpful tool for controlling necrotic enteritis (NE).
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Avian pathogenic E. coli: Difficult to prevent and control
The bacterium E. coli has re-emerged in broiler operations, which seems to coincide with poultry companies’ switch to ‘no antibiotics ever’ (NAE) programs.
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Coccidiosis vaccination impedes nutrient digestibility
Poultry veterinarians and production managers are all too familiar with coccidiosis and its impact on gut health, nutrient absorption, feed conversion and growth rate.
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Live-production management practices that help contain Salmonella
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.
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Focal duodenal necrosis in table-egg layers easily overlooked
Focal duodenal necrosis in table-egg layers can be an easily overlooked cause of drops in egg production and egg-case weight loss.
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Trial shows glutamine aids gut health in broilers raised without antibiotics
With the increase in no-antibiotic-ever production, glutamine may serve as a helpful nutrient asset, particularly when birds are under stress.
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Aggressive vaccination of broiler breeders needed to keep reovirus in check
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...
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Gizzard changes seen in NAE flocks but diagnosis is murky
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...
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Sanderson vet shares thoughts on managing elusive reovirus, other gut diseases
Autogenous vaccines used in a reovirus vaccination program need to be updated relatively often to keep up with changes in the pathogen
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Early exposure to Clostridium protects birds from necrotic enteritis
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.
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Sanitation key to successful NAE production
The key to successful “no antibiotics ever” (NAE) broiler production is cleanliness throughout every step of production, including a pristine hatchery.
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Coccidiosis control, litter management key to NE prevention in broilers raised without antibiotics
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.
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It takes two: Coccidiosis vaccines effective against E. tenella after adequate cycling
Coccidiosis vaccination was effective in broilers challenged with Eimeria tenella but only after vaccinal oocysts cycled twice, Laura Tensa, DVM, told Poultry Health Today.
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Trace minerals, used litter, coccidiosis control key to managing enteritis in NAE flocks
Starting broiler flocks on used litter, coupled with effective coccidiosis control and the use of trace minerals, can help minimize necrotic enteritis (NE) in broiler flocks raised without...
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Coccidiosis control: New strategies for a new era
Coccidiosis can be controlled in broilers without antibiotics as long as producers pay closer attention to hatchery coccidiosis vaccination procedures, brooding and stocking rates, Greg Mathis, PhD,...
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Research focusing on new controls for coccidiosis, relationship with Salmonella
Alternative products for coccidiosis control remain the focus of research, but so far, the results are inconsistent, Sam Hendrix, DVM, veterinarian and researcher at Colorado Quality Research, told...
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Vaccinating broilers against Salmonella can help reduce pathogen’s prevalence at processing
Vaccination of broilers against Salmonella can help poultry producers reduce the pathogen’s prevalence at processing and may also benefit bird performance, Kalen Cookson, DVM, director of clinical...
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Two symposia on poultry enteric disease set stage for 2018 AAAP Conference
Two symposia focused on enteric disease in poultry will be held immediately prior to the 2018 American Association of Avian Pathologists (AAAP) annual conference set for this July in Denver.
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Non-ionophore anticoccidial may help manage necrotic enteritis in RWA flocks
Flocks raised without antibiotics (RWA) that received a non-ionophore anticoccidial after coccidiosis vaccination had fewer necrotic enteritis (NE) lesions, less mortality and better feed conversion...
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Necrotic enteritis: Can it be managed effectively in NAE flocks?
Necrotic enteritis (NE) is not only a big problem in flocks raised without antibiotics, there’s a wide variation in how it presents itself, Steve Davis, DVM, president of Colorado Quality Research,...
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Managing coccidiosis successfully in poultry raised without antibiotics
Producers raising flocks without antibiotics are finding new ways to manage gut health and coccidiosis with vaccination and anticoccidials, said Greg Mathis, PhD, coccidiosis specialist.
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Managing coccidia ‘leakage’ in antibiotic-free production systems
The US broiler industry has long relied on coccidial leakage to create immunity against coccidiosis in chickens. In antibiotic-free production systems, leakage occurs but can be more challenging to...
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Managing ionophores and diets for best performance
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.
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Mathis: Long-term planning key to effective coccidiosis management
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...
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Coccidiosis, intestinal health and their relationship to pathogen loads of harvested broilers
For more than 60 years, antibiotics and synthetic anticoccidials have teamed up to keep coccidiosis under control and produce least-cost meat, said Donald Waldrip, DVM, senior technical services...
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Tyson vet shares experiences with antibiotic-free broilers
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.
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Alternative treatments for necrotic enteritis: Has CQR’s Steve Davis found the ‘silver bullet’?
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.
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Necrotic enteritis: In search of the silver bullet
Steve Davis, DVM, of Colorado Quality Research says there’s no “silver bullet” for managing necrotic enteritis in broilers and shares his observations from recent studies.
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Coccidiosis research yielding new perspectives on AST
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...
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Poultry specialist offers tips for managing gut health through better nutrition
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...
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Coccidiosis expert: Timing and combination of cocci control methods critical
Greg Mathis, PhD, of Southern Poultry Research, Athens, Georgia, talks about the continued challenges managing coccidiosis and offers suggestions for improving management programs targeting the...
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Trade-offs needed in gangrenous dermatitis management
Don Ritter, DVM, of Mountaire Farms, Millsboro, Delaware, discusses his experiences managing gangrenous dermatitis in broilers, the disease’s relationship with coccidiosis and what producers can do...
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Correlating lesion scores to microscores creates statistical model for efficacy, feed conversion in poultry
Georgia researcher Lorraine Fuller and graduate student Miguel Barrios, at University of Georgia, build new statistical model that saves poultry producers time and money by correlating lesion scores...
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Rising issues with coccidiosis and necrotic enteritis
Suzanne Dougherty, DVM, encourages “back to basics” with gut-health management while exploring new options
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Let coccidiosis organisms ‘see something different’
Poultry producers are losing ground to coccidiosis because they’re not implementing effective rotation programs that employ different types and classes of anticoccidials, says Don Waldrip, DVM, a...
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Coccidiosis specialist: ‘Understand’ the products you’re using
Coccidiosis has been around as long as any poultry producer can remember. And despite decades of experience with the tenacious parasitic disease, it hasn’t gotten any easier to manage. In fact,...
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Coccidiosis: Why is it still so difficult to control?
Coccidiosis can be extremely difficult to manage in poultry because the organism that causes it "has a tremendous capability to reproduce and it's very resistant to any kind of attempt to destroy...
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Rotecc™ coccidiosis management video
Learn more about the new global coccidiosis-management initiative from Zoetis.
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Using antibiotics to improve flock performance
Low doses of some antibiotics can help maintain a healthy flock without increasing drug resistance, according to a University of Minnesota veterinarian.
Hatchery
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Automation key to ensuring sanitation in ‘no antibiotics ever’ systems
Labor shortages in hatcheries mean that to ensure appropriate levels of sanitation in “no antibiotics ever” production, wholesale automation is likely to be required.
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Study: Day length during brooding did not impact broiler performance
Extended day length during the brooding period is thought to benefit broilers’ long-term performance and well-being. However, a University of Georgia study has re-evaluated that idea.
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Recombinant vaccines for poultry: How to maximize results
Proper vaccine handling, dosage and administration are key to ensuring thorough and effective coverage. That statement is particularly true when talking about recombinant-vector vaccines.
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Light impacts behavior in cage-free aviaries
Birds can move out of the reach of the workers’ hands in a multi-tier aviary system, so employees have to climb into the system to get to them. Researchers from Michigan State studied light...
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Early infectious bronchitis virus infection causes more severe false layer syndrome
Exposure to IBV has been linked with cases of false-layer syndrome, where large cysts in the oviduct prevent birds from laying eggs.
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Essential adjustments that improve IB vaccine efficacy in broilers
A few essential adjustments in the way infectious bronchitis vaccines are handled and administered at the hatchery can improve vaccine efficacy.
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Going with the flow: How to maximize the effectiveness of spray vaccination
Attention to detail is vital when it comes to ensuring that spray vaccinations against respiratory diseases such as infectious bronchitis are as effective as they can possibly be, according to...
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Hatchery tips for successful transition to NAE production
Preventing birds from getting sick is perhaps the biggest challenge encountered when transitioning from conventional to “no antibiotics ever” (NAE) production.
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Hatcheries in NAE production systems can’t cut corners on cleaning, husbandry
Hatcheries providing chicks for no antibiotics ever (NAE) production need to be meticulous with cleanliness and good husbandry practices in order for the program to succeed.
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Study: Larger particles in starter feed lead to better performance
Starter feed of larger particles consumed by young chicks is associated with better performance during the lifetime of broiler birds, according to a study conducted at Mississippi State University.
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Seasonal management in hatchery critical to improving chick viability
Optimizing hatchery conditions throughout the year is crucial to limiting chick mortality and maintaining long-term bird viability, according to a poultry health expert.
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Good gut health starts before hatch, expert says
To establish good gut health, measures to promote a healthy microbiome can’t begin soon enough, an expert reports.
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Chick quality vital to no-antibiotics-ever success, consultant says
Focusing on chick quality from the moment eggs enter the incubator is critical to ensuring birds have the best chance of being healthy and productive in no-antibiotics-ever (NAE) systems.
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Wet bulb reservoirs can be source of bacterial contamination for hatching eggs
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.
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Ensuring chick quality in NAE production
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.
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Four areas of hatchery management to help achieve better biosecurity
Diligent attention to four areas of hatchery management — egg-pack quality, incubation, sanitation and in ovo vaccination — can go a long way.
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Hatchery hygiene helps limit broiler E. coli mortality risk
Disinfecting eggs and improving overall hygiene in the hatchery could dramatically reduce the risk of mortality linked to E. coli infections, scientists say.
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Dirty chick boxes can be source of Salmonella at hatcheries
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.
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Lameness in poultry can start in the hatchery
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.
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Halting in ovo vaccination not a good option for managing hatchery bacteria
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.
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E. coli becoming more common with rise in ‘no antibiotics ever’ programs
With the removal of antibiotics in the hatchery in “no antibiotics ever” (NAE) programs, the bacterium Escherichia coli is becoming more of a problem at many broiler complexes.
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Getting the hatchery ready for ‘No Antibiotics Ever’ production
Sanitation is the key to success when a hatchery completely removes antibiotics from its process, Josh Mulkey told Poultry Health Today.
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Hatchery expert offers tips for fighting bacteria, improving biosecurity
With more US poultry companies reducing or eliminating antibiotic use in the hatchery, poultry companies need to make an even greater effort to guard against costly bacterial infections.
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Tyson vet shares experiences with antibiotic-free broilers
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.
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Economic benefits of early chick placement
Taylor Barbosa, DVM, of Zoetis looks at research showing the benefits getting chicks on the floor as soon as possible.
Infectious diseases
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Back-to-basics for managing health of cage-free pullets
Poultry producers with cage-free pullet systems should go back to the basics of bird management to keep their flocks healthy and productive.
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Distinctive condition affects layers as well as turkeys, broilers
A disease commonly seen in turkey and broiler flocks can also affect layers, meaning that producers should look out for its distinctive signs.
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Why ‘vaccinated’ chickens still get infected with IBV — and what to do about it
While many vaccines and vaccination programs effectively protect against the highly contagious infectious bronchitis virus in poultry, outbreaks of the disease still occur in vaccinated flocks.
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Poultry industry can learn from COVID-19
Biosecurity is not sufficient to control avian coronaviruses like infectious bronchitis in commercial poultry, no matter how good it is, said Mark Jackwood, PhD, a molecular virologist and professor...
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Poor IBV vaccine performance in broiler study underlines need for surveillance
A whole-complex study of broiler breeders in Georgia found underwhelming infectious bronchitis vaccine performance – but with better surveillance and protocols, outcomes could be improved.
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Interaction of modified-live and recombinant vaccines shows potential against viral diseases
Adding a modified-live vaccine (MLV) to recombinant vaccine programs against three important viral pathogens in poultry production can have a positive impact on outcomes, according to field work by...
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Details matter when it comes to ILT vaccination success
Attention to detail is key to successfully vaccinating broiler flocks against infectious laryngotracheitis (ILT), according to a poultry health expert.
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Molecular test helps identify pathogenicity in new strains of infectious bursal disease virus
A genetic technique which could help improve predictions about the virulence of infectious bursal disease (IBDV) has identified pathogenicity in seven new strains of the virus which causes an...
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Three keys to successful IBV control
Highly contagious and constantly evolving, infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) is notoriously difficult to control.
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Two years of IBV sampling underlines importance of surveillance work
Large-scale collection of samples from producers across the southern US is helping shed new light on infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) in chicken flocks — including uncovering a new serotype of the...
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Diagnostics key to effective mycoplasma control
Avian mycoplasmosis is a problem for poultry producers worldwide, but according to an expert, there’s no “one-size-fits-all” approach to managing it.
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False layer syndrome linked to early infectious bronchitis exposure
Research is increasingly linking false layer syndrome to early exposure to infectious bronchitis virus. The condition prevents laying hens from producing eggs, but birds display few outward signs of...
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Cross-protection vaccine protocols key to limiting DMV/1639 spread in US flocks
Combining serotype vaccines might be a popular approach to protecting flocks against evolving strains of infectious bronchitis virus, such as DMV/1639, but not all combinations work equally well.
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Testing mixed control approaches important in controlling Salmonella in broilers
Commercial broiler farms often employ a multi-faceted approach in tackling Salmonella, but testing different combinations of control options together on a small scale before they are rolled out...
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Serotype, presentation of IBH differ in large and small birds
More than one serotype has been the cause of inclusion body hepatitis (IBH) in broilers, which has presented differently in large- and small-bird complexes.
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Consider predominance of AL-2 variants when planning IBDV vaccination program
The AL-2 family of variants is the predominant strain of infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) circulating among US broiler flocks, according to a recent survey.
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ND is stable in US but poultry industry should be on lookout for evolving strains
Newcastle disease throughout most of the US remains stable, but the industry needs to be on guard for changes in the virus that may require adaption of ND vaccines.
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Sanderson vet: Keeping up with variant reovirus strains remains challenging
Poor uniformity, lameness and reduced water consumption are tip-offs that broilers may be infected with variant reovirus.
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Unusual presentation of bacterial septicemia in broilers tied to breeders
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...
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Sentinel broilers, PCR testing help isolate, identify evolving IBV populations in Arkansas
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...
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Virulent ND in California sending wake-up call to US poultry industry
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.
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Navigating the maze of alternative products for necrotic enteritis control
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.
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Mycoplasma synoviae demanding more attention as poultry industry grasps its full impact
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...
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Can water treatments help reduce Salmonella levels before processing?
Feed withdrawal before moving broilers to the processing plant appears to increase their susceptibility to Salmonella, indicates research from the University of Georgia.
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Biosecurity, disinfection, downtime keys to better ILT control
Strict biosecurity is the best defense against infectious laryngotracheitis (ILT) in broiler flocks, advises Maricarmen García, PhD, a professor at the University of Georgia.
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Halting in ovo vaccination not a good option for managing hatchery bacteria
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.
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Is MS the next ‘big, bad Mycoplasma’ for US poultry?
The US poultry industry is reporting more problems with virulent Mycoplasma synoviae according to Naola Ferguson, DVM
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On-farm Salmonella control helps prevent processing plant contamination
Contaminated chicken feathers and feet may be the primary vectors for transmitting Salmonella from poultry houses to processing plants, according to Martha Pulido, DVM, PhD, Mississippi State...
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‘Turkeys are suffering’ without good control of coccidiosis
Turkeys are suffering from coccidiosis due to a lack of available medications, according to Greg Mathis, PhD, Southern Poultry Research, Athens, Georgia.
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Foregoing CAV breeder vaccination based on ELISA results can backfire
Not vaccinating broiler breeders for chicken anemia virus (CAV) because ELISA results show detectable antibodies could be asking for trouble, says Guillermo Zavala, DVM, PhD, Avian Health...
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Seven misconceptions about IBD in broilers
Kalen Cookson, DVM, is the director of clinical research, poultry, Zoetis. He explained the common misconceptions about infectious bursal disease (IBD) to Poultry Health Today.
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How mutations, antigenic drift affect IBD management
Farms affected by variant infectious bursal disease (IBD) viruses may find that currently available IBD vaccines aren’t always effective, said Daral Jackwood, PhD, professor in food animal research...
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Clostridial dermatitis: Why is it so prevalent in turkeys?
Skin lesions in turkeys open the door to Clostridium infections and clostridial dermatitis, the most important disease in the turkey industry, according to a study by Kakambi Nagaraja, PhD,...
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H9N2 could devastate America’s poultry industry
H9N2, a low-pathogenic avian influenza virus common in parts of Asia, the Middle East and North Africa, would be difficult to control if introduced to the US, said David Suarez, a research leader...
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Is feed a vector for avian influenza virus?
Layer feed does not appear to be a likely vector for transmitting the avian influenza (AI) virus, based on research conducted by Yuko Sato, DVM, of Iowa State University.
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Necrotic enteritis and age of litter: What’s the connection in broilers?
Broilers raised on used litter develop better immunity to necrotic enteritis (NE) than birds raised on new litter when challenged early with Clostridium perfringens, Steve Davis, DVM, president of...
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Infectious bursal disease: ‘It’s never black and white’
Daral Jackwood, PhD, a professor at Ohio State University, is best known in the US poultry industry as the go-to expert on infectious bursal disease (IBD). In an interview with Poultry Health Today,...
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Alternative therapies called best long-term hope for blackhead disease in turkeys
Alternative treatments may be the only long-term hope for managing blackhead in turkeys, said Robert Beckstead, PhD, turkey health specialist, North Carolina State University.
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Sanderson Farms vet drawing new battle lines against ILT
Sanderson Farms growers have been asked to stop driving their farm trucks off the farm to help prevent outbreaks of infectious laryngotracheitis (ILT), according to Phil Stayer, DVM, head...
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Infectious bronchitis: The ‘eye of the storm’ for chicken health
Ask any poultry producer about the most economically important disease in broilers, breeders or layers. Infectious bronchitis (IB) almost always tops the list and could best be described as the...
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MG in poultry: Often overlooked but still costly
The incidence of Mycoplasma gallisepticum is currently low in broiler and broiler breeder flocks thanks to decades of effort by the US poultry industry, but producers should maintain their guard to...
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Managing coccidia ‘leakage’ in antibiotic-free production systems
The US broiler industry has long relied on coccidial leakage to create immunity against coccidiosis in chickens. In antibiotic-free production systems, leakage occurs but can be more challenging to...
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Avian influenza in the US: High-path, low-path and its link to other poultry diseases
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...
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E. coli in broilers: Its costly impact on condemnations and mortality
Infectious bronchitis is a never-ending battle for poultry producers, but its the secondary infection E. coli that often proves to be the most costly to broilers in terms of condemnations and...
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Necrotic enteritis in broilers: Disease or syndrome?
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.
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Managing E. coli in broilers in the face of IBV infection
Don Ritter, DVM, of Mountaire Farms, Millsboro, Delaware, details the company’s recent bout with infectious bronchitis in broilers and the costly secondary infection of E. coli that followed.
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Taking a holistic approach to poultry health
Poultry companies need to adopt a "more holistic approach" to poultry medicine — one that considers the birds' environment and other variables that can affect vaccine and antibiotic performance,...
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Poultry vet urges poultry producers to guard against E. coli
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...
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Poultry vet offers tips for managing vaccination programs for infectious bursal disease (IBD)
Producers have many options for vaccinating for infectious bursal disease (IBD), but there’s no blanket program for all operations or all seasons. Kalen Cookson, DVM, a veterinarian for Zoetis,...
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The changing face of reovirus in poultry
Don Waldrip, DVM, of Zoetis talks about new variants or reovirus in poultry and the best ways to manage it.
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Infectious bronchitis constantly evolving making it a tough target
Infectious bronchitis may not show symptoms in live birds but surprises poultry producers with condemnations at processing, says Tim Cummings, DVM, technical service veterinarian for Zoetis.
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Kinky back takes costly toll on broilers at 4 to 6 weeks
Broiler producers are being urged to watch for signs of kinky back, an emerging bacterial disease of poultry that can cause significant losses in birds 4 to 6 weeks of age.
Respiratory
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How effective IBV surveillance can prevent ‘overvaccination’
Consistent surveillance and analysis of infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) at poultry production facilities can guard against “overvaccination” — where too much vaccine virus in the environment...
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Why ‘vaccinated’ chickens still get infected with IBV — and what to do about it
While many vaccines and vaccination programs effectively protect against the highly contagious infectious bronchitis virus in poultry, outbreaks of the disease still occur in vaccinated flocks.
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Early infectious bronchitis virus infection causes more severe false layer syndrome
Exposure to IBV has been linked with cases of false-layer syndrome, where large cysts in the oviduct prevent birds from laying eggs.
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Essential adjustments that improve IB vaccine efficacy in broilers
A few essential adjustments in the way infectious bronchitis vaccines are handled and administered at the hatchery can improve vaccine efficacy.
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Periodic IBV PCR testing is key to ensuring vaccination efficacy
Complexes should regularly evaluate the infectious bronchitis viruses (IBV) prevalent on their farms to help determine which vaccines can provide the best protection possible.
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Three keys to successful IBV control
Highly contagious and constantly evolving, infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) is notoriously difficult to control.
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Two years of IBV sampling underlines importance of surveillance work
Large-scale collection of samples from producers across the southern US is helping shed new light on infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) in chicken flocks — including uncovering a new serotype of the...
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Tackling stress key to protecting birds from coryza resurgence, says expert
Limiting stress in broiler flocks is key to preventing birds from succumbing to an infectious respiratory disease which is showing a resurgence in some areas of the US, according to a poultry expert.
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Surveillance of circulating IBV types essential for disease control
Surveillance aimed at pinpointing the type of infectious bronchitis virus that’s circulating in poultry flocks is essential to control of the disease.
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Foster Farms: Community approach key to managing coryza spread in poultry
Tackling endemic poultry diseases as a community rather than as individual producers can play an important role in controlling and limiting their spread.
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Sentinel broilers, PCR testing help isolate, identify evolving IBV populations in Arkansas
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...
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Virulent ND in California sending wake-up call to US poultry industry
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.
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Genomic sequencing could aid ILT control efforts in poultry
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,...
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Novel technologies needed to combat IB in chickens
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.
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Mycoplasma synoviae demanding more attention as poultry industry grasps its full impact
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...
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E. coli vaccination helps contain losses in broilers with IB infection
Field experience with infectious bronchitis in broilers during a harsh winter demonstrated that vaccination for secondary Escherichia coli infection helped stem losses
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Is genetics the key for lasting IBV immunity?
Manipulating the immune response may be one way infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) is controlled in the future, predict researchers studying genetic lines of poultry.
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Consistency, follow-up key to controlling IBV
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.
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Biosecurity, disinfection, downtime keys to better ILT control
Strict biosecurity is the best defense against infectious laryngotracheitis (ILT) in broiler flocks, advises Maricarmen García, PhD, a professor at the University of Georgia.
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Vaccination protects broilers from IBV despite exposure to moderate ammonia levels
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.
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Is MS the next ‘big, bad Mycoplasma’ for US poultry?
The US poultry industry is reporting more problems with virulent Mycoplasma synoviae according to Naola Ferguson, DVM
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Why infectious bronchitis is so resilient — and what broiler companies can do about it
Control of infectious bronchitis (IB) requires good biosecurity, good management and rigorous administration of a vaccine that matches the circulating virus as closely as possible, John Smith, DVM,...
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H9N2 could devastate America’s poultry industry
H9N2, a low-pathogenic avian influenza virus common in parts of Asia, the Middle East and North Africa, would be difficult to control if introduced to the US, said David Suarez, a research leader...
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Easy mistakes to avoid when managing respiratory disease in poultry
A methodical approach to managing respiratory disease in poultry can help veterinarians avoid misinterpreting data and making mistakes, according to David French, DVM, Sanderson Farms.
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Immune-response research could yield new IB strategies for poultry
Research into the immune response of chickens could help lead to strategies that enable chickens to resist infectious bronchitis (IB), Rodrigo Gallardo, DVM, PhD, professor, University of California...
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Sanderson Farms vet drawing new battle lines against ILT
Sanderson Farms growers have been asked to stop driving their farm trucks off the farm to help prevent outbreaks of infectious laryngotracheitis (ILT), according to Phil Stayer, DVM, head...
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Infectious bronchitis: The ‘eye of the storm’ for chicken health
Ask any poultry producer about the most economically important disease in broilers, breeders or layers. Infectious bronchitis (IB) almost always tops the list and could best be described as the...
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MG in poultry: Often overlooked but still costly
The incidence of Mycoplasma gallisepticum is currently low in broiler and broiler breeder flocks thanks to decades of effort by the US poultry industry, but producers should maintain their guard to...
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Avian influenza in the US: High-path, low-path and its link to other poultry diseases
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...
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UGA’s Mark Jackwood: Stop ‘shooting in the dark’ with bronchitis vaccination
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...
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Managing ILT: Traditional CEO vaccines still provide ‘best protection’
John Glisson, DVM — professor emeritus at the University of Georgia and well-known respiratory disease specialist — talks about the ups and downs on infectious laryngotracheitis (ILT) in poultry...
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Infectious bronchitis: A moving target
University of Georgia’s Mark Jackwood, PhD, explains why infectious bronchitis keeps evolving and what poultry producers should do to stay ahead of the costly disease.
Rules & Regs
Safe poultry
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Don’t overlook feed biosecurity in efforts to manage Salmonella
Biosecurity in feed mills and on-farm feed storage should not be overlooked when it comes to managing the risk of Salmonella in poultry flocks, according to a turkey-health expert.
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Live-vaccine program a ‘must have’ to deal with cage-free E. coli challenge
A higher risk of bacterial challenges in cage-free egg production means a live-vaccination program against Escherichia coli is a “must-have minimum” for flocks reared in alternative systems.
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Breed may impact broiler response to Salmonella infection
Research at the University of Arkansas suggests broiler breed could affect birds’ immune response to Salmonella exposure, according to Shawna Weimer, PhD, director of the Center for Food Animal...
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Salmonella serotypes are changing — monitor which ones are in your flock
It’s imperative for poultry producers and companies to know what strains of Salmonella may be circulating in their flocks, said Chuck Hofacre, president of the Southern Poultry Research Group in...
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Study highlights risk of high Salmonella exposure, more persistent serotypes
Feed conversion takes a bigger hit in birds with higher Salmonella exposure, while Salmonella Reading outlasts other serotypes through the grow-out period, suggests new work from the University of...
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USDA evaluating Salmonella-reduction steps along the poultry supply chain
Almost 25% of US foodborne illnesses continue to be linked to poultry products. To get an accurate measure of product contamination, USDA is evaluating the poultry supply chain.
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Genomic technology sheds light on Salmonella serotypes in breeder flocks
A technology called CRISPR-SeroSeq, which amplifies a section of the Salmonella genome, is helping paint a clearer picture of the serotypes circulating in breeder flocks.
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‘Competitive exclusion’ is potential benefit of live Salmonella vaccines in young birds
Live vaccines for Salmonella have been found to start offering protection within a few days of administration, acting “almost as a [form of] competitive exclusion,” said Chuck Hofacre, president...
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Turkey-farm study finds Salmonella Infantis prevalent
Research studying Salmonella across one turkey producer’s farms found Salmonella Infantis to be by far the dominant serotype.
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Shift to cage-free egg production prompts need to revise health and management plans
Vaccinations and other preventative health measures are more critical than ever as the US egg industry shifts toward cage-free and no-antibiotics-ever production.
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Direct-fed microbials can impact Salmonella vaccine efficacy
Some direct-fed microbial additives with live cultures have been found to impact the efficacy of modified-live vaccines.
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Better management, biosecurity could mean lower Salmonella levels in NAE farms
New research has suggested that Salmonella levels in no-antibiotics-ever (NAE) poultry systems could be lower than those on conventional broiler farms.
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Litter management can help control Salmonella Heidelberg
Ongoing studies to find ways of managing Salmonella Heidelberg loads in poultry litter have suggested that downtime is key to reducing the pathogen’s rates.
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Right skills critical to managing increases in Salmonella, coccidiosis associated with cage-free egg production
Producers making the switch to cage-free egg production need to ensure they are properly prepared for managing potential increases in Salmonella and other health challenges.
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Utilizing on-farm testing key to helping processors understand S. Infantis loads
Using a range of testing methods for Salmonella Infantis can help broiler companies build a better picture of how effective interventions against the pathogen are performing.
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Testing mixed control approaches important in controlling Salmonella in broilers
Commercial broiler farms often employ a multi-faceted approach in tackling Salmonella, but testing different combinations of control options together on a small scale before they are rolled out...
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Treatment blend offers ‘exciting potential’ for Campylobacter control at processing
Blending two commonly used antibacterial treatments could help processing facilities take better control of Campylobacter and reduce the risk of food-borne illnesses, according to scientists.
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New avian leukosis rule expected to reduce waste, improve efficiency for processing plants and FSIS
Acceptance of a petition designating avian leukosis lesions on poultry carcasses as a trimmable condition is expected to reduce waste and improve efficiency at processing plants while allowing meat...
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USDA urged to give producers time to trial Campylobacter and Salmonella interventions
Greater flexibility is needed in official Salmonella and Campylobacter testing regimes in order to support poultry producers and processors who are trialing new interventions to tackle both
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Study: Live S. Typhimurium vaccine reduces S. Infantis colonization
Investing in vaccination programs to develop cross-protection against some of the most common strains of Salmonella could help limit the number of foodborne outbreaks of the pathogen.
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Mountaire Farms is first company to carry the One Health Certified label
Mountaire Farms is the first animal protein company to carry the One Health Certified label, demonstrating its commitment to animal production standards established by the program.
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Measuring effectiveness of on-farm interventions key to Salmonella control
Understanding the impact specific on-farm interventions can have on Salmonella is critical to helping the US poultry industry meet government standards around the disease, according to a leading...
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Salmonella’s sex life key to mitigating food safety risks
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.
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Perdue veterinarian seeks answers to inconsistent foodborne pathogen load
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...
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US poultry industry shifting focus to Campylobacter, Salmonella Infantis
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,...
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Vaccinated birds shown to have lower incidence of Salmonella at processing
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.
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Poultry producers facing higher hurdles with USDA food-safety standards
Poultry producers can expect to jump higher hurdles as USDA continues to raise the bar for food safety.
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Moving up: Vaccinating broilers may help poultry companies improve Salmonella ratings
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
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New standards for foodborne pathogens expanding control programs to live production
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.
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Vaccination of broilers ‘quick and easy’ way to get Salmonella under control
Vaccination of broilers against Salmonella may be the best and most expedient option for producers struggling to meet USDA performance standards at the processing plant, said Chuck Hofacre, DVM, PhD,...
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Refined carbs show promise as ‘sentinel’ for Salmonella control
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.
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Special report: Poultry veterinarians teaming up to reduce condemnations, optimize food safety
Minimizing carcass condemnations and reducing the load of foodborne pathogens moving from broiler farms into processing might seem like separate production objectives — and they are.
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C. perfringens on broiler meat can survive processing, potentially sicken consumers
Listen to or download the podcast Most broiler producers know the economic impact of necrotic enteritis caused by Clostridium perfringens, particularly in birds raised without...
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Poultry veterinarians facing new challenges with NAE trend, food safety guidelines
The NAE production movement has helped reduce antibiotic use in poultry for good reason, but veterinarians need to make sure the pendulum doesn’t swing so far they have no antibiotics left to...
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Finding the right balance with antibiotics and flock welfare
Part 3: The issue of antibiotics in poultry continues to divide the poultry industry, with one side supporting routine preventive use and the other committed to raising birds without antibiotics.
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New rule, same baseline skews sampling for foodborne pathogens
Part 2: Last year, the US poultry industry switched from buffered peptone water to “neutralized” buffered peptone to reduce the risk of false negatives when sampling whole chickens and parts for...
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US broiler industry steadily reducing incidence of foodborne pathogens
Part 1: The US broiler industry is successfully and steadily reducing the prevalence of Salmonella and Campylobacter on chicken parts since the USDA’s new performance standards took effect.
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Air quality affects S. Heidelberg colonization in broilers
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...
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Teaming with poultry companies to ensure carcass quality and food safety
The role of today’s technical services veterinarian needs to go beyond posting sessions, field trials, product support and customized disease-management programs.
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Both organic, conventional processing reduce Campylobacter on carcasses
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...
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Coccidiosis, intestinal health and their relationship to pathogen loads of harvested broilers
For more than 60 years, antibiotics and synthetic anticoccidials have teamed up to keep coccidiosis under control and produce least-cost meat, said Donald Waldrip, DVM, senior technical services...
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Meeting the new USDA/FSIS standards for Salmonella and Campylobacter in poultry
USDA/FSIS issued new standards for Salmonella and Campylobacter in ground poultry meat and chicken and turkey parts.
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Balancing consumers’ preferences with flock health, welfare and food safety
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...
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Salmonella prevention requires teamwork between production and processing
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.
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Regulatory expert urges poultry producers to document, document, document
Henry Turlington, PhD, of AFIA, points out the implications of the new Food Safety and Modernization Act (FSMA) regulations and the need for improved communication and record keeping for poultry...
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Rising issues with coccidiosis and necrotic enteritis
Suzanne Dougherty, DVM, encourages “back to basics” with gut-health management while exploring new options
Sustainability
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Seasonal management in hatchery critical to improving chick viability
Optimizing hatchery conditions throughout the year is crucial to limiting chick mortality and maintaining long-term bird viability, according to a poultry health expert.
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Right skills critical to managing increases in Salmonella, coccidiosis associated with cage-free egg production
Producers making the switch to cage-free egg production need to ensure they are properly prepared for managing potential increases in Salmonella and other health challenges.
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Veterinarian: Rethink layer health programs with move to cage-free
The poultry industry’s gradual switch to cage-free egg production has underscored the need to rethink disease-control programs.
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Managing the health challenges of moving to free-range egg production
Free-range egg production will bring major challenges to the way birds are produced, but it will also mean big shifts in the ways bird health and welfare need to be managed.
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Training and management critical for cage-free egg production
Training chicks and pullets so they are prepared for life in cage-free egg systems is critical to ensuring they meet their full productive potential.
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Better air circulation, moderately lower humidity improve paw quality
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.
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Urban chicken movement requires legislators to learn chicken basics
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.
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Heat stress may impair immune system in broilers
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.
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Antibiotic-free poultry production: Is it sustainable on a large scale?
Phil Stayer, DVM, head veterinarian at Sanderson Farms, is worried about what he calls an "anti-technology movement" directed at the US poultry industry, particularly as it relates to veterinary care...
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Sanderson Farms vet shares views on sustainability, antibiotic-free and FDA’s new antimicrobial guidelines
Antibiotic-free poultry production is creating ethical conflicts for veterinarians while raising questions about sustainability, animal welfare and the industry’s ability to feed a growing...
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Defining, and demonstrating, sustainability in the poultry industry
Billy Hargis, PhD, University of Arkansas, thinks the US poultry industry has already set high standards for sustainability, but its efforts are largely misunderstood and unappreciated.
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Sustainability: ‘It’s about continuous improvement’
Marty Matlock and Gregory Thoma of the University of Arkansas define sustainability as “continuous improvement” and discuss both the track record and the challenges of today’s poultry
