Avian Infectious Laryngotracheitis

Avian Infectious Laryngotracheitis is a respiratory disease of poultry. It is a highly contagious disease caused by a herpesvirus. Signs of the disease are swollen eyes, lethargy and acute respiratory issues. Feed and water intake can be reduced, therefore reducing production. It may also present with increased mortality.

Spread between sites can occur by airborne particles, litter material or fomites; i.e. materials which can spread disease such as personnel, clothes, equipment, vehicles, etc. It is vital ALL bird keepers remain vigilant to this threat.

It is crucial that biosecurity measures are implemented by anyone coming onsite.

Foot Dips & Wheel Sprays

• Foot Dips must be replenished on a regular basis and kept covered to avoid diluation
• Wheel Sprays must be in place and utilised by ALL vehicles entering the site,
• Concrete Aprons must be washed and disinfected

 Hygiene & PPE

• All staff must maintain a high level of personal hygiene
• Protective clothing must be worn inside the shed
• A change of footwear should be available for inside and outside

 Visitors

• No unnecessary visitors should be permitted access to the site
• Provide PPE to those who must come onsite
• Ensure all visitors follow the biosecurity measures on farm
• All gates and doors should be locked to prevent access
• Maintain a visitor log

 Wild Birds

• All sheds and stores must be properly bird proofed
• Maintain Perimeter Fences
• Avoid potholes/pools of water
• No feed or water should be provided outdoors

 Be Present

• It is crucial you are on site for all feed deliveries, collections, service suppliers, catching teams, etc. to ensure all biosecurity measures are followed
• Pets should not be allowed access to the shed/site – they are a biosecurity risk to your business
• Time is precious at this busy time – but you must protect your poultry business!

 Notifiable Disease

• Avian ILT is a notifiable disease
• If you suspect your birds are affected, please contact your regular veterinarian or notify DAFM immediately by contacting your local Regional veterinary Office or Call 1850 200 456.
• In the unfortunate event of a positive case, please contact your vet for best practice guidelines on site cleaning and disinfection

Further information:

Rebecca Tierney, Teagasc Poultry Advisor
E: Rebecca.Tierney@teagasc.ie
P: 049-4338666 | W: www.teagasc.ie