TUCKER, GA – USPOULTRY and the USPOULTRY Foundation announce the completion of a funded research project at the USDA, Agriculture Research Service, Southeast Poultry Research Laboratory, on improvements for avian influenza testing. The project is part of the Association’s comprehensive research program encompassing all phases of poultry and egg production and processing. A brief summary of the completed project is shown below. A complete report, along with information on other Association research, may be obtained by going to USPOULTRY’s website, www.uspoultry.org. The project summary is as follows:
 

Project #663: Optimal Sample Collection Methods For Avian Influenza Virus Detection

(Dr. Erica Spackman, USDA – Agricultural Research Service, Southeast Poultry Research Laboratory)

The poultry industry in the United States has a very sophisticated and exhaustive system to monitor flocks for the presence of avian influenza virus (AIV). This monitoring system is designed to insure the rapid detection of any accidental introduction of AIV into poultry in the United States so that measures to control and eradicate the virus can be swiftly implemented. Each year the poultry industry collects and tests a very large numbers of samples. The methods used for collecting the samples are a critical component of the success of the program.

Dr. Erica Spackman with the USDA Southeast Poultry Research Laboratory in Athens, Georgia, recently critically evaluated the methods used for sample collection in the United States and established recommendations for improving and standardizing the collection methods. Dr. Spackman’s recommendations will improve the ability of the poultry industry to detect AIV using the current testing methods. Further, these recommendations will allow a potentially significant reduction in the cost of the testing program.

For a detailed summary, click here.

U.S. Poultry & Egg Association is an all-feather organization representing the complete spectrum of today’s poultry industry, with a focus on progressively serving member companies through research, education, communication, and technical assistance. Founded in 1947, U.S. Poultry & Egg Association is based in Tucker, GA.