New guide targets poultry disease risks in Caribbean

The Caribbean Poultry Association has released a new publication aimed at improving poultry health and farm management across the region. The booklet, titled “Safe & Sound: A Biosecurity Guide for Small Poultry Flocks in the Caribbean”, was launched on March 25, 2026, during the 26th Meeting of the CARICOM Committee of Chief Veterinary Officers.
The launch took place in a hybrid format, combining in-person attendance in St Eustatius with virtual participation. The session drew more than 300 online participants and approximately 80 attendees on site. It was supported by the CARICOM Secretariat and the Caribbean Agricultural Health and Food Safety Agency.
The new guide builds on an earlier publication released in July 2025, “Keeping Cool: A Practical Guide to Managing Stress in Small Poultry Flocks in the Caribbean”. Both resources focus on addressing challenges identified by farmers and technical experts that affect poultry productivity and profitability.
The booklet was developed through collaboration between the Caribbean Poultry Association and the University of the West Indies School of Veterinary Medicine. Contributions were made by regional veterinary professionals, including Victor Gongora, Nicholas Waldron, and Keith Amiel.
During the seminar, several technical presentations were delivered on key issues affecting poultry health and production. Speakers included Hubert Trenchi, Shayne Ramsubeik, and Lisa Musai. Topics covered included practical biosecurity measures, the development of farm-specific biosecurity plans, responsible use of medications, antimicrobial resistance, and approaches to building resilience in poultry farming systems.
A panel discussion followed, featuring chief veterinary officers from Belize, the Cayman Islands, Jamaica, and St Kitts and Nevis, alongside a representative from the World Organisation for Animal Health. Panellists addressed questions related to disease prevention and regulatory measures aimed at reducing the risk of avian influenza and other poultry diseases in the Caribbean.
Executive Director of the Caribbean Poultry Association, Nisa Surujbally, highlighted the role of small-scale farmers in the regional poultry sector. She noted that these producers account for up to 40 per cent of the poultry meat supply and play a significant role in egg production.
Surujbally also pointed to growing demand for poultry as an affordable source of protein, with regional consumption exceeding 50 kilograms of broiler meat per capita annually. She said the industry is working to increase production while reducing reliance on imported inputs such as hatching eggs and feed.
Farmers were encouraged to adopt the guidance outlined in the publication. According to Surujbally, simple measures, including securing farm boundaries and maintaining hygiene practices before entering poultry areas, can help reduce the risk of disease transmission.
The new booklet, along with the previous guide and webinar materials, has been made available online through the Caribbean Poultry Association’s official platforms.