Beetle, Water, Feed & Rodent Transmission of AI Study

The objectives of the study are to determine a) if feed or darkling beetles can act as vector in transmission of AIV, b) if virus can become incorporated into biofilm located inside a poultry house’s waterlines, and c) if rodents can be infected and transmit AIV.

Outcomes from this study will help improving our understanding of the epidemiology of AIV. Knowledge derived from this study will assist in implementing improved biosecurity programs to help reducing and preventing the spread of AIV into poultry houses, which could negate the use of vaccines and prevent the costly embargo of all poultry products.

Scientists working on this project include: Dr. Joseph Giambrone, professor of poultry science at Auburn University; Dr. Kenneth Macklin, associate professor and extension specialist at Auburn University, and Hongzhuan Wu, associate professor of Biology at Alabama State University.