Litter Biosecurity

In any poultry-deep litter system, the litter introduced either at the beginning of the flock or in re-littering, is a potential source of contamination with disease-producing organisms. Litter produced from wood by-products under controlled conditions is less likely to present a microbiological hazard than untreated straw.

Common contamination threats

Mould

Spores of mould (usually Aspergillus fumigatus) can cause disease in young chickens and turkeys of any age. It occurs when litter materials have been high in moisture content and exposed to warm temperatures. Even if temperatures subsequently drop and the material dries out, large numbers of spores will persist almost indefinitely.

Chemical dangers

A broad range of other organisms could find their way into the poultry flock via chemically contaminated litter. For example, toxic materials such as lead, pesticides or toxic plant materials.

Litter storage, transport and delivery

Problems can occur, even if the litter at source is of ideal quality. The actual delivery of litter into the poultry house may be the weakest link. Although post-cleaning and disinfection usually ensures the interior of the buildings will be clean, there can still be some residual contamination in the external areas of the farm when litter delivery is taking place.

A good system for separating treated and untreated material ensures that all material is treated, and that the treated material is not re-contaminated by contact with untreated material.

More specific biosecurity information

• Overview
• Traffic control
• Access restrictions
• Security involving service personnel

Source: Chapter 2, A Pocket Guide to Poultry Health & Disease (P.F. McMullin DPMP MRCVS, 2004) available through www.thepoultrysite.com for £23.50 + P&P).

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