Avian Influenza Response Training for the Poultry Industry and Affiliated Agencies: Depopulation and Carcass Disposal Methods

NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY: <p>In the event of a catastrophic disease such as Avian Influenza (AI), infected flocks need to be depopulated in an effort to contain the outbreak and eradicate the disease. Being prepared to respond swiftly and effectively to such an event is absolutely essential. Preparedness involves having knowledge of options for humane depopulation and environmentally sound disposal procedures that can be implemented in a biosecure manner. Through a combined lecture and hands-on simulation training on mass poultry depopulation and in-house composting in four major meat-type (turkey and broiler) poultry producing areas of the U.S., poultry industry and emergency response personnel will be more prepared to respond to an outbreak of Avian Influenza and prevent further spread of the disease.
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APPROACH: <p>Mass Depopulation Methods Using Carbon Dioxide and Foam: The following CO2 methods have been used in previous AI events: whole house, portable panels with tarp, livehaul cage cabinet, and poly tent. To achieve a desired goal of 70% CO2 concentration with these methods, the pounds of CO2 required can be calculated by multiplying the cubic feet of space in the enclosure by the factor 0.08 pounds. A procedure used for broilers and roasters and could potentially be used for small turkeys is the poly tent method. CO2 cylinders are placed (spacing of tanks based on bird age) down the center of the house. One edge of a 40 foot wide polyethylene is anchored with litter on each side of the house while the opposite edge of poly from each roll is temporarily fastened to the ceiling. Starting on one side of the house for the entire length, workers pull the edge of the poly that was temporarily fastened to the ceiling over the birds. <p>The process is repeated on the opposite side of the house. The CO2 gas is then turned on under the overlapping layers of poly. This method is labor intensive, has the potential of exposing workers to the virus (in an actual outbreak), requires trained personnel to execute properly, and requires disposal of the contaminated poly. One major advantage of this method is materials for this procedure are readily available and can be implemented in short notice. Ways to improve to this procedure will be demonstrated. Pending conditional approval, the use of foam as an emerging technology that rapidly depopulates houses with minimum human exposure will be presented. The status of current research, and the supplies, different types of equipment and techniques for implementation will be demonstrated. Disposal Options for Catastrophic Disease Flocks: Local and state regulations may dictate disposal options for diseased flocks. Similar to depopulation options, it is essential to have pre-approved methods, identify a team leader, labor, supplies, equipment, and vendors; and to prepare and practice if applicable, these disposal options. On-farm burial, landfilling, incineration and composting have been the predominant means of disposal of catastrophic disease flocks. <p>The proposed project will focus on training poultry personnel and emergency responders on in-house composting. In-house composting as a disposal and carcass/litter pathogen inactivation procedure is emerging as the preferred method to deal with a disease outbreak. Composting will rapidly inactivate AI virus, eliminate potential air and water quality concerns, and is a practical, cost-effective disposal option for many situations. Depending on depopulation method and carcass size, in-house composting can be achieved using three different procedures. A mix and pile procedure is the most efficient method and most applicable when carcasses are evenly distributed over the litter surface. Participants will be trained on the procedures that best meet their industry's needs.