Avian Influenza: A Looming Threat And Mitigation Strategies
Avian Influenza, commonly known as bird flu, is a highly contagious disease caused by Influenza type A viruses. These viruses are enveloped and primarily spread by migrating water birds. The impact of Avian Influenza is profound, causing devastating mortality rates in poultry populations.
 | As reported by African News Agency: “Around 120 000 birds have died or been destroyed at two Western Cape poultry farms due to avian influenza.” |
However, the concern extends beyond birds, as this disease is zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted between animals and humans.
This potential for interspecies transmission raises public health concerns and highlights the need for effective control measures. Beyond its health implications, Avian Influenza also inflicts substantial economic damage.
The disease’s ability to spread through various means has led to its rapid transmission across regions. This viral menace employs a diverse range of mechanisms, including aerosols, inanimate objects (such as utensils, clothes, shoes, equipment), feathers and faeces and dust, to propagate its reach. Recognizing these multifarious pathways is pivotal to halting the disease’s rampant proliferation, as each mode of transmission demands targeted intervention to curb its impact.
In order to contain Avian Influenza, Manchem emerges as a biosecurity vanguard. As a pivotal player, Manchem’s innovative solutions and expertise are addressing the need for effective control measures with the following promising avenues for containment:
- Aerosols Management: Aerosols play a critical role in the transmission of Avian Influenza, particularly within confined spaces like egg trucks and change rooms.
Manchem’s Biofect Aerosol, a combination of Isopropyl Alcohol and Didecyl Dimethyl Ammonium Chloride, has emerged as a promising solution. It not only helps in reducing the presence of the virus but also lowers the total plate counts on surfaces within egg trucks.
- Inanimate Object Disinfection: Contaminated surfaces and objects act as potential vectors for Avian Influenza.
Manchem’s Stabisan VC, a neutral disinfectant tested against Influenza type A virus, and sprayed with Biofect Aerosol can effectively disinfect these surfaces, curbing the virus’s survival and spread.
- Feathers and Faeces: Feathers and bits of faeces can harbour the virus.
Manchem’s Biofect, a disinfectant with a base of glutaraldehyde, can be used. Application methods include spraying using specialized equipment such as crop sprayers, UIV sprayers, or high-pressure cleaners with foaming nozzles.
- Dust Control: Dust laden with the virus on roads around farms presents another avenue for transmission.
Manchem’s Dust Buster, a naturally derived product designed to bind dust particles, can effectively reduce the presence of virus-laden dust.
The battle against Avian Influenza demands a comprehensive approach and Manchem’s innovative solutions are playing a crucial role in mitigating the risk of spread. As the threat of zoonotic diseases continues to loom large, proactive measures like these are imperative to safeguarding both animal populations and human health.