Journal of Food: Microbiology, Safety & Hygiene
Open Access
ISSN: 2476-2059
ISSN: 2476-2059
Bello Oladele Gafaru
Federal Univesity Dutse, Nigeria
Posters & Accepted Abstracts: J Food Microbiol Saf Hyg
Statement of the Problem: Avian influenza (AI) is a viral disease of poultry that affects human and only biosecurity best practices can sustainably put it under control through good hygiene behavior in an endemic environment. Farmers�?? attitude in this direction have not been studied in Jigawa Northwest Nigeria where the disease originated and remains endemic. Purpose: The purpose of the study: is to assess the poultry farmers biosecurity knowledge against AI in Dutse metropolis Jigawa State, Nigeria; specifically determine their sources of information, biosecurity attitudes and practices and constraints in adopting biosecurity measures. Methodology: A multistage sampling technique was employed in the study to select respondents based on the three main components of biosecurity in husbandry practices (Cleaning, Disinfection and Segregation/Traffic Control). Findings: In cleaning subcomponent only hand washing after toilet, vaccination and cleaning before restocking was practiced. Only disinfection of equipment similarly was practiced in disinfection component while only employee restriction was practiced in segregation and traffic control respectively. Conclusion & Significance: Standard biosecurity measures were not complied with leading to recurrent episode of AI. Therefore, correction can be achieved through advisory services, capacity building, and agencies like AICP, JARDA and development partners. AI is a zoonotic disease of worldwide significance and it causes psychosocial effect, diversification of livelihood means and economic losses to the farmers on continuous basis. The above measures should be taken into consideration in the fight against AI.
E-mail: bellogafaro@gmail.com