IEC launches avian influenza vaccination and surveillance paper

The paper, which has been developed by the International Egg Commission‘s avian influenza global expert group, considers the advantages of vaccination against avian influenza and ways to overcome potential barriers to vaccination.

“The potential for vaccination to play a role in HPAI prevention and emergency management in layer hens has been discussed widely in recent months, as the global poultry industry continues to face unprecedented levels of avian influenza,” said Ben Dellaert, chair of the expert group, adding that the paper will support countries considering vaccination as an additional tool for prevention and emergency management of HPAI in layer hens, and to establish and implement a successful vaccination and surveillance strategy.

Surveillance for infection within vaccinated flocks

The International Egg Commission’s paper also explores how to conduct appropriate surveillance for infection within vaccinated flocks to allow for continued trade of poultry and poultry products as stipulated by the World Organisation for Animal Health Terrestrial Animal Health Code.

“Alongside robust biosecurity, vaccination can be an important additional tool for preventing and managing HPAI,” said Dellaert.

* The ‘High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza in Layers: Considerations and Essential Components for Vaccination and Surveillance’ paper is now available to download from the IEC website – click here.