By Hannah Cargill, contract production manager, Avara Foods
If you’re in the broiler business, chances are you’ve heard the murmurings about Inclusion Body Hepatitis (IBH) making waves across the UK broiler industry. This disease, caused by fowl adenovirus, this virus has been creating significant challenges, leaving producers scrambling to figure out how to keep their flocks safe and productive.
IBH spreads through both vertical and horizontal transmission, making it a formidable challenge. In vertical transmission, infected breeder hens pass the virus directly to their chicks through the eggs—an unwanted family heirloom. Horizontal transmission, however, appears to be more common. Without a vaccine, we typically rely on birds encountering the virus and developing an immune response. However, there’s been a recent increase in antibody-negative broilers, indicating that parent stock hasn’t been exposed to the virus. As a result, broiler chicks are vulnerable to infection when they first encounter the virus on the farm.
But what about broilers whose parents have already encountered IBH? Unfortunately, the current strain of the virus has become more invasive than in recent history. Histologists are now finding more inclusion bodies in the liver and, for the first time, in the pancreas. This new, more aggressive strain can break through the immunity levels previously provided by the parent stock, which explains why we’re seeing IBH in the offspring of breeder flocks that had previously encountered the virus.
IBH doesn’t just sneak up on you—it hits hard. Look out for birds that are sluggish, off their feed, or worse, dying suddenly. It’s devastating to see, especially after all the hard work that goes into raising these flocks. If you were to examine an infected bird, the liver would show the classic signs: swollen, pale, and filled with those distinctive inclusion bodies.
So, how do we keep IBH out or deal with it once it’s in? The answer lies in rigorous biosecurity and hygiene. Think of it as putting up a strong, invisible barrier against this virus. Clean and disinfect thoroughly, control who enters and exits your sheds, and tighten your biosecurity measures. Consulting your vet for specific advice on disinfectants and protocols is crucial—don’t skip this step.
While there’s no vaccine available yet, it’s something the industry is eagerly waiting for. Until then, the best defence is a proactive approach: regular health checks and catching any signs of trouble early can make a huge difference.
IBH is a tough challenge, but with diligence, strict hygiene practices, and solid management, we can safeguard our flocks and ensure the broiler industry remains resilient.