Outbreak of ILT sparks biosecurity alert in southwestern Ontario municipality

In response to a confirmed case of infectious laryngotracheitis (ILT) in a small poultry flock, the Feather Board Command Centre (FBCC) has issued a comprehensive biosecurity advisory for a 10 km radius within the Municipality of Grey Highlands in southwestern Ontario. The advisory is expected to remain in effect until late February 2024.

The FBCC was alerted to the presence of ILT after poultry from a small flock tested positive for the highly contagious respiratory virus. Poultry farmers, as well as those working with avian species or traveling through the affected area, are urged to strengthen their biosecurity protocols immediately.

ILT is a serious disease primarily affecting chickens, characterized by symptoms such as increased mortality, noisy breathing, head-shaking, reduced feed intake, decreased egg production, inactivity, ruffled feathers, and conjunctivitis. Farmers are advised to promptly contact their veterinarian and board representative if any signs of ILT or other health concerns are observed in their flocks.

To prevent the spread of ILT, farmers are instructed to avoid all contact with non-commercial poultry and other birds. Strict biosecurity measures include limiting farm visitors to essential service providers, monitoring the movement of birds, people, and equipment on and off premises, and minimizing visits to other poultry production sites.

Farm personnel in contact with birds or entering production sites should wear clean boots, protective suits, head coverings, and gloves, practicing thorough cleaning and disinfection before and after visits, including handwashing. Vermin and wild bird control should also be strictly enforced.

For small flock growers seeking specific resources, SmallFlockOntario.ca is available for assistance.

Given the prevailing risk of highly pathogenic avian influenza, poultry farms are reminded to maintain heightened biosecurity protocols. Service providers to poultry farmers in the affected area are urged to minimize and carefully sequence travel, following recommended biosecurity measures during essential visits. All deliveries or loading in the Advisory Area should be last on the route, with thorough vehicle disinfection before any further deliveries or loading.

Updates on the ILT situation in Grey Highlands will be communicated through the Feather Board Command Centre’s official website at www.fbcc.ca. The FBCC emphasizes the importance of collective vigilance and cooperation in mitigating the spread of ILT and other poultry diseases.