About the Author
Christine Heinrichs
Articles by Christine Heinrichs
APA Flock Inspection Program
With increased interest in heritage breed poultry, the American Poultry Association is stepping up to promote standard breeds. Its Flock Certification Program, revived in 2014 after being abandoned in the 1950s, will certify consumer chicken and other poultry with the APA’s imprimatur.
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Exotic/Virulent Newcastle Disease Closes California Shows
Virulent, formerly called Exotic, Newcastle Disease infected some Southern California flocks in the past year. Poultry shows in those counties, and around California, were canceled.
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Virulent Newcastle Disease
Virulent, formerly called Exotic, Newcastle disease is a constantly evolving RNA virus. Anything that comes in contact with a sick bird can pass it on, and the virus can live as long as 120 days outside a host. People do not get sick from eating poultry products infected with vND, but working directly with birds can cause mild conjunctivitis. Controlling vND involves recognizing symptoms and practicing strict biosecurity.
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