Farmers must remain vigilant when it comes to poultry health and disease control. There is a growing need to adopt regenerative farming practices and protect soil health. Some companies may promote the use of low-level chemical fertilisers, but farmers should instead consider natural options such as compost tea.
Despite experiences during Covid, chickens should not be confined to cages. They should be allowed to roam freely in open spaces. Keeping chickens in cages restricts their growth and increases the risk of disease. Free-range conditions help birds stay healthier and stronger.
Caged poultry is often not properly screened for diseases. There is always a risk of an infectious virus developing and spreading, which could lead to another major health crisis if transmitted to humans. Such infected poultry should never be sold to the public and must be culled and destroyed safely.
Routine inspections by authorised personnel are essential. Diseases such as avian flu must be monitored regularly. Infected birds should be quarantined and isolated at the source to prevent the spread of infection. Carcasses must be disposed of properly, and all equipment and facilities must be thoroughly disinfected.
Regular culling of infected birds is necessary to protect the entire flock and reduce losses for farmers. We cannot afford another pandemic. The last one caused immense suffering and loss, and its lessons must not be forgotten.
