Assessment of bio-security situation and practices in live poultry markets of addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Abstract

A study on assessment of bio-security situation and practices of live poultry markets in Addis Ababa was conducted from November 2009 to January 2010 using structured, pre-tested questionnaire as well as observation. A total of 104 respondents from 8 purposively selected live poultry markets were interviewed on different factors that contribute to bio-security situation and practices. Moreover, data about the status of bio-security was collected through observation. The resuit showed that 52.8% of the traders used public transport type together with people while 47.1% used lorry. The materials used for packing the poultry were sack 49 (47.1%), bamboo cage 48 (46.2%) and wooden cage 7(6.7%). It was discovered that these materials were poor from bio-security point of view, as they are neither easily washable nor dis infect able. Virtually ail of the markets dwell with poor sanitary and hygienic practices. In connection, 71.2% of the respondents claimed that sick poultry were either sold to hôtels or simply thrown everywhere rendering high potential for dissemination of diseases both to poultry and human beings. Finally, the survey revealed that there was high risk of diseases transmission and dissemination related to bio-security of live poultry market in the study area. Hence, systematic and integrated intervention should be undertaken by the government and concerned bodies to mitigate the problem. © 2012 Academic Journals Inc.