The impact of avian influenza on the laying industry in Israel and around the world

Avian influenza is one of the most contagious and significant diseases in the global poultry industry. The disease, caused by influenza A viruses, affects a wide range of domestic and wild birds. When an outbreak occurs in laying hens, the impact is not only on the health of the birds – it also results in egg shortages, rising prices and severe damage to the stability of the industry.

In recent decades, outbreaks of the disease have become more frequent, causing the destruction of hundreds of millions of birds worldwide.

Transmission and spread

The avian influenza virus is spread primarily through:

   •   Direct contact between birds

   •   Respiratory and diarrheal secretions

   •  Contaminated equipment, clothing, and vehicles

   •  Migrant waterfowl, which are a natural reservoir for the virus

Wild birds are considered a major factor in introducing the virus into commercial poultry

farms, especially open-air poultry farms or agricultural areas near water sources.

Impact on Laying Hens

In laying hens, an outbreak of the disease causes a number of significant effects:

A sharp decrease in egg production

The bird flu virus damages the reproductive system of chickens. Sometimes a 40–80% decrease in egg production is recorded within a few days.

High mortality

In the most virulent strains of the virus, mortality may reach 90–100% of the flock.

Damage to egg quality

Even before complete mortality, you may see:

   •   Thin shells

   •   Distorted eggs

   •   Decreased egg weight

Economic impact on the egg industry

An outbreak in one coop may create a chain effect throughout the industry:

Cultivation of entire flocks

According to veterinary procedures in many countries, including Israel, when avian influenza is diagnosed, the entire flock must be destroyed to prevent spread.

Decrease in egg supply

When millions of laying hens are destroyed, a shortage is created in the market.

Increase in prices for consumers

The result is an increase in egg prices and sometimes also the import of eggs from other countries.

The situation in Israel

In recent years, Israel has experienced several outbreaks of avian influenza, especially during the waterfowl migration season.

The main challenges in Israel include:

   •   High concentration of laying hens in the north of the country

   •   Relatively open hens

   •   Proximity to waterfowl migration areas

In cases of an outbreak:

   •  Entire flocks are destroyed

   •  The hens are disinfected

   •   Movement restrictions are imposed on poultry and eggs in the area.

Global impact on the egg market

Globally, the largest outbreaks have occurred in the US, Europe and Asia.

The consequences include:

   •   Cultivation of hundreds of millions of chickens

   •   Egg shortages in some countries

   •   A significant increase in egg prices

   •   Greater investments in biosecurity in chicken coops

In some countries, the shortages have even led to restrictions on the sale of eggs to consumers.

Ways to deal with and prevent

To reduce the risk of an outbreak in laying hens, it is common to take several steps:

Strict biosecurity

   •   Disinfection of vehicles and equipment

   •   Restriction of entry of workers and visitors

   •   Special work clothes for the henhouse

Preventing contact with wild birds

   •   Nets and protection of henhouse openings

   •  Preventing open water sources near the henhouses

Monitoring and rapid response

   •   Immediate reporting of abnormal mortality

   •   Laboratory tests

   •   Isolation of infected areas

Summary

Avian influenza is considered one of the main threats to the global laying industry. An outbreak in commercial poultry houses not only causes harm to the welfare of the birds but also causes significant economic damage and disruptions in the egg market.

In the reality of global bird migration and high density in commercial poultry houses, proper biosecurity management and early monitoring are the most important tools for maintaining the stability of the industry.

*It is always advisable to consult a qualified veterinarian.