Biosecurity practices in commercial poultry farms located in ElFashir Locality- Sudan

This study was conducted to assess the biosecurity practices in commercial poultry farms in the locality of ElFashir, North Darfur State Sudan. Thirty two farms biosecurity tests were used, biosecurity practices were evaluated in poultry farms using the checklist and organized questionnaires administered to commercial poultry farmers. Simple descriptive statistics were used (frequencies and percentages) to summarize and display the results. The results showed that 62.5% of the farms used the floor brooding system of the birds; 59.4% open barns; The domestic stock in access to the farm site 68.8%; Pets or wildlife birds have access to inside of barns or feed storage 71.9%; yearly water quality is not checked by a reputable laboratory 96.9%; employees have routine contact with other poultry species 84.4%; regular cleaning and disinfection of feeders and drinkers washing is done mainly by soap in addition to water. 43.8%; employees and their families with other people on poultry housing site 100%; poultry production, feed consumption, and mortality records are kept, but not reviewed daily 18.8%; there is untrimmed vegetation and debris within barn(s) 81.2%; vehicle flow designated way traffic onto premises and off premises 100% and perimeter fencing and gate present but not always locked or guarded or fence not completed 56.25%. The study concluded that there is a severe weakness in the application of biosecurity practices in its three branches isolation, cleaning disinfecting and traffic control. The adopted hygiene and traffic control measurement were all within the high and medium biosecurity risk limits whereas mismanagement resembled 60.4% the highest risk of biosecurity practices among the studies in commercial poultry farms of ElFashir Locality. Therefore, it is strongly recommended for local authorities to intervene with qualified teams of poultry professional and experts to train poultry farmers, managers and attendees on importance of implementing sound biosecurity practices.