Section 150. Production unit bird testing and recordkeeping

Production unit birds shall originate from a negative AI flock and shall bear or be accompanied by identification to a premises of origin. The categories of production units and the testing requirements for each category are as specified in the "USDA Uniform Standards for a State-Federal-Industry Cooperative Program, October 20, 2004."

Samples for AI testing may be collected by state or federal animal health technicians, veterinary medical officers, accredited veterinarians, or others so designated by the State Veterinarian.

The production unit shall maintain AI flock test records as well as records of bird purchases and transfers for 12 months from the date the bird left the production unit. A copy of the form to be used may be obtained from the State Veterinarian.

Production unit birds loaded for transportation shall be identified by premises of origin and shall contain a lot number that will distinguish the shipment from others. The production unit shall record this information on the test certificate that will be provided to the distribution unit.

A production unit shall not sell its birds directly to LBMs unless the production unit is also licensed as a distribution unit in Virginia. A production unit licensed as a distribution unit in Virginia shall locate the C&D equipment at a site approved by the State Veterinarian.

Production unit premises with birds that test positive for AI shall be quarantined while results are being confirmed. Positive AI flocks shall be tested using a virus-detection procedure.

Production unit premises that are confirmed positive for AI shall be depopulated and shall undergo C&D. The State Veterinarian shall approve depopulation and disposal methods. Such depopulation and disposal shall be accomplished by production unit personnel. The premises shall then be inspected and retested. The production unit shall have a negative AI environmental test before restocking. If approved by the State Veterinarian, controlled slaughter may be directed as a method of depopulation.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 22, Issue 25, eff. August 21, 2006.

Statutory Authority

§ 3.2-6023 of the Code of Virginia.