ILT threat subsides in two communities

The Feather Board Command Centre (FBCC) has officially lifted the heightened biosecurity advisories that were imposed in response to infectious laryngotracheitis (ILT) outbreaks in the Township of South Stormont in eastern Ontario and the Municipality of Grey Highlands in southwestern Ontario.

The advisories, which were initially declared on January 8th, 2024, for South Stormont and on January 10th, 2024, for Grey Highlands, had mandated strict biosecurity measures within a 10 km radius of the affected areas. However, following diligent efforts and effective containment strategies, the FBCC has now deemed it safe to stand down the advisories.

The ILT outbreaks had initially raised alarm bells in South Stormont and Grey Highlands, triggering the implementation of stringent biosecurity measures until late February 2024. ILT is a highly contagious respiratory virus primarily affecting chickens, and its presence in small flocks prompted the FBCC to take swift action to prevent further spread.

Farmers and residents are reminded to remain vigilant for any signs of health concerns in their flocks. If any abnormalities are detected, immediate contact with veterinarians and board representatives is strongly recommended.

The FBCC has established Disease Alerts on its website, where detailed information about ILT and other avian health issues can be accessed. For those who want to stay updated on the latest developments, subscribing to FBCC Disease Alerts is encouraged.

Despite the easing of the specific ILT advisories, the FBCC remains committed to maintaining a proactive stance against avian diseases, emphasizing the need for continued adherence to biosecurity protocols across the province. The cooperation of poultry farmers and industry stakeholders is crucial to ensuring the overall health and well-being of Ontario’s avian population.

In particular, poultry farmers, small flock growers, and industry personnel throughout the province are being urged to continue practicing Heightened Biosecurity Practices (orange cards) as part of the ongoing high-pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) recovery efforts.