Assessment of Biosecurity Measures in Poultry Farms in Khartoum North Locality - Khartoum State – Sudan

Abstract

This study was conducted by field survey to study the application of biosecurity in Khartoum Bahri locality during the period 3/ September 2018 to 27/ December 2018. A number of farms were selected randomly 44 farms (17 layers, 27 broiler farms) using the Ministry of Animal Resources and Fisheries records. Data was analysed by simple percentages and using SPSS version number (16). The findings showed that the majority of farmers raise broilers for the quick turn – over and easiness of management. Most farms (79.5%) were of closed system with wire fencing. Most replacement chicks were from local commercial sources at (86.4%). The distance from main road was less than 50m for (25%), Less than 1 km for (29.5%) between the farms and between houses less than 20m for (29.5%). More than (50%) of the farms raised more than 50000 birds. Most farms (75%) used wood sawdust for litter and (27.3%) do not change litter for the whole cycle. χ2 showed positive relationship between housing system and house numbers. Also between housing system and number of birds and between housing system and total number of birds per farm. For the experience period a total of (43.2%) were more than 10 years. A total of (63.3%) do not use protective clothing for visitors. Some (52.3%) were not committed to workers uniform and (34.1%) do not perform staff health check. Farm ownership was (18.2%) veterinarians, (15.9%) agricultural engineers and (9.1%) animal production specialist. The main water source was wells at (43.2%). The main feed source at (54.5%) was farm preparation and (25%) do not clean the feed stores and also (54.5%) do not examine water pollution. Most visitors allowed were marketing agents and (25%) of the farms do not have rules for interring visitors and most farm staff were not committed to biosecurity measures when entering. A total of (90.9%) practiced sick bird’s isolation. Most diseases encountered were bacterial and a majority of (95.9%) followed fixed vaccination programme and the majority disposed of dead birds by incineration. A majority protects the units from the wild birds and do not keep other animals. Most farms dispose of manure by selling and at the cycle end. The study concluded that many of the biosecurity measures were not addressed in Khartoum Bahri locality.