Which biosecurity measure is best for poultry facilities?

Minimizing traffic in the facility is the best biosecurity measure for poultry facilities because it helps reduce the risk of introducing diseases into the flock. Limiting the number of people and vehicles that enter the poultry area decreases the likelihood of pathogens being transferred from outside sources. Each visitor or vehicle can potentially carry harmful microorganisms on their clothing, shoes, or equipment, which could infect the birds.

By controlling and minimizing traffic, poultry operators can implement strict protocols, such as requiring sanitization procedures before entry and maintaining clean zones. This creates an environment that significantly lowers the risk of disease outbreaks, which is crucial for the health and productivity of the poultry.

Increasing visitor access, allowing free movement between flocks, and using untreated water sources would compromise biosecurity by exposing the birds to possible contaminants, pathogens, or diseases. These practices could lead to infection and loss in the flock, underlining the importance of minimizing traffic as a protective and proactive biosecurity measure.