Avian influenza aerosol spread risk and mitigation

This project aims to improve understanding of high pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) aerosol transmission during depopulation and disposal (D&D) on infected chicken layer farms in Australia. The project will quantify virus viability in shed litter, measure fine dust aerosol generation during D&D, and estimate aerosol transmission risk. The new knowledge will inform mitigation strategies to minimise aerosol generation during D&D on infected farms. This research will enhance biosecurity on-farm during response to HPAI outbreaks; aid more effective control of outbreaks; and support rapid return to production or the egg industry.