Everyone needs tools in the toolbox to be prepared for the unknown. In this episode we share what ITF is doing to add to the toolbox and visit with President Brad Moline and Dr. Steven Clark, Huvepharma, on what you have and what you potentially have in the coming year.
In Episode 2 of The Turkey Talk Show, Sheila and Gretta introduce key updates for turkey farmers, including the launch of the TurkeyConnect app, which offers features like forums, a community directory, and access to the show. The episode focuses on Avian Metapneumovirus (aMPV), a rapidly spreading disease affecting poultry, particularly turkeys.
Dr. Steven Clark and Brad Moline, ITF President, discuss the virus's impact, including increased mortality rates and reduced egg production, which has led to a national poult shortage. The spread of aMPV, first detected in late 2023, has dramatically affected turkey flocks, with mortality rates climbing significantly in some cases. The virus is also associated with secondary infections like E. coli and cholera.
The episode emphasizes the urgent need for both live and killed vaccines, though USDA approval is still pending for most options. The show urges listeners to download the TurkeyConnect app, share the podcast, and engage with the turkey farming community. Future episodes will include discussions with industry leaders like Jill Altringer and Dale Nellor.