Fighting avian influenza goes beyond simply using a good disinfectant like Intra Multi-Des GA…
At this time, the world is once again affected by avian influenza and the virus has re-emerged on a large scale.
We regularly receive questions about this highly pathogenic virus affecting the poultry industry in many regions around the world. To provide clarity on the cause, risks, spread and prevention of the virus in her company, Daisy Roijackers from Intracare, will answer your most pressing questions.
6 Reasons to choose Intra Multi-des GA
- Comprehensive disinfectant with 5 active ingredients.
- Effective against bacteria, viruses and yeasts.
- Already effective at 0.2% for bacteria and 0.75% for viruses.
- Leading disinfectant for the most difficult agricultural conditions.
- Strong residual action and wettability properties.
- Extensive records.
Why do avian influenza outbreaks usually occur in the autumn/winter period?
This is due to the natural course of migratory birds, which breed in Siberia during the spring/summer and migrate to Europe, Asia and Africa during the autumn.
Wild waterfowl are known as the reservoir of avian influenza viruses and can shed the virus through saliva, nasal secretions, and feces.
Domesticated birds can become infected through direct contact with these infected wild birds, contaminated surfaces, or other infected animals. This is why many countries require all birds to be kept in confinement when the risk of (highly pathogenic) avian influenza is high.
Last year, Arjan Stegeman, Professor of Farm Animal Health at Utrecht University, gave a talk during our Intra Hygiene online inspiration event. In his talk, he explained the global movement of wild birds and how this relates to bird flu.
Why can’t we vaccine all poultry against bird flu?
Currently available vaccines can prevent the disease, but do not stop transmission.
That is why in many countries these vaccines are not approved, as it results in a “silent” virus. This would complicate the control of an outbreak and increase the risk to humans. Since an effective vaccine is simply not available yet, biosecurity is the #1 prevention strategy.
What is the current risk for humans beings?
Data from the World Health Organization (WHO) show that between 2003 and 2021, 863 human cases of H5N1 avian influenza have been confirmed globally, of which 456 (52%) died.
The H5N1 strain is currently spreading in Europe and Asia. So far, no human-to-human transmission has been observed and the risk of infection to the general public is low.
But the fact that humans in direct contact with sick birds can become infected shows that the spread of a “silent” virus would be a big risk.
Fighting avian influenza goes beyond simply using a good disinfectant like Intra Multi-Des GA. In the document “How to fortify yourself against avian influenza,” you can see all the essential tools to protect yourself against an outbreak of this disease.