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More information and resources on Avian Influenza

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According to MDA, biosecurity continues to be the best defense for commercial and backyard poultry operations in protecting their flocks against Avian Influenza. Commercial and backyard flock owners are urged to follow these guidelines to maintain a sanitary, biosecure premises:

• Restrict access to poultry by posting “Restricted Access” signage, securing the area with a gate, or both.

• Take steps to ensure that contaminated materials on the ground are not transported into the poultry growing house or area.

• Provide the following items to anyone entering or leaving any area where poultry are kept: footbaths and foot mats with disinfectant, boot washing and disinfectant station, footwear change or foot covers.

• Cover and secure feed to prevent wild birds, rodents or other animals from accessing it.

• Cover and properly contain carcasses, used litter, or other disease-containing organic materials to prevent wild birds, rodents or other animals from accessing them and to keep them from being blown around by wind.

• Allow MDA to enter the premises during normal working hours to inspect your biosecurity and sanitation practices.