Why is this research important for Alberta ag?
In 2022, the poultry industry in Alberta was challenged by a highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreak affecting wild birds, commercial poultry operations, and small flocks. Many waterfowl are affected with HPAI as well as birds of prey, other bird species and small mammals, which may also suggest ‘elevated environmental pressure of infection’.
The poultry industry follows biosecurity protocols and has been on heightened alert since early 2022 but Alberta still has the highest number of infected premises in Canada. Questions are being asked across the poultry industry concerning how HPAI virus has entered poultry barns; this may be potentially related to biosecurity breaches from fomite transmission, ventilation, water sources, or other factors.
It is critical to characterize the epidemiology and spread of HPAI in our local situation in 2022, to directly support the poultry industry so appropriate risk mitigation and other disease prevention and control decisions are based on current evidence.
What benefits can producers expect from this research?
This project aims to create information that will be used by the poultry industry to improve biosecurity and risk mitigation strategies moving forward. The robust analysis will answer questions of concern to industry.
Maps and models will be developed so they can be updated as more or alternate information becomes available.