In the latest episode of At the Farm Gate, host Jack Hughes sat down with Wayne Olbison from LANXESS to discuss one of the biggest challenges facing poultry producers today: avian influenza (AI). With over 30 years of experience across farm management, nutrition, and technical support, Wayne shared practical strategies to protect flocks during this high-risk season.
Wayne’s journey through the poultry industry is extensive. Starting on the turkey farms his father built over 50 years ago in West Yorkshire, he moved on to major producers like Faccenda and PD Hook Broilers before working in pharmaceutical and biosecurity solutions with Zoetis and Bio Link. Today, he leads a UK and Ireland team at LANXESS, providing biosecurity products and advisory support for integrators, distributors, and farmers. His experience across all aspects of poultry production brings both practical and technical insight to the table.
Preparing for a Challenging AI Season
2025 has already seen over 50 AI outbreaks since October, with expectations that this winter could mirror the severity of 2022–2023. Wayne emphasised, “We need to expect a very similar situation to 22/23. People’s livelihoods and production are at stake, so preparation is key.”
Jack added, “The most we can do is bring biosecurity to the forefront — protecting the integrity of our sheds is critical to keeping this virus out.”
Practical Biosecurity Measures
Visitor Management: Wayne highlighted that even well-meaning visitors can spread disease. “Signing in and keeping track helps prevent contamination,” he said. Jack emphasised, “If we can stop non-essential visitors coming on farm, that’s one less risk to worry about.”
Wheel Washes: Properly maintained wheel washes with the right disinfectant and contact time are crucial. Wayne warned, “Drive-through systems can become a bacteria and disease soup if not managed correctly.” Jack noted, “Even the best system is only effective if it’s used properly, people sometimes think just having a wheel wash is enough.”
Foot Dips and Boot Changes: Barrier systems have improved disease control, but consistent routines remain essential. Wayne stressed, “Changing your boots when entering sheds and allowing foot dips adequate contact time kills pathogens and protects your flock.” Jack added, “It only takes a moment to change boots, but it could prevent disaster for your entire flock.”
Cleaning and Disinfecting Sheds: Wayne advised pre-wetting, applying detergent, rinsing carefully, and using sequential disinfectants. “Use a fast-acting product first, then a second that targets specific pathogens like coccidiosis. Attention to detail here protects your birds and preserves production.” Jack reflected, “Biosecurity might be invisible, but it directly affects mortality and production. Looking after the small things means the big things look after themselves.”
Choosing the Right Products
DEFRA-approved products like Virkon remain highly effective when used correctly. Wayne explained, “Use products at the approved rate and seek expert guidance, that’s more important than chasing temporary list changes.”
The Bigger Picture
Jack and Wayne agreed that biosecurity is more than tools, it’s a mindset. Wayne concluded, “Biosecurity is our real defence. You won’t stop diseases circulating globally, but you can do your best to stop them affecting your farm.” Jack added, “If we look after the daily challenges properly, AI will take care of itself.”
Listen and Learn More
For practical, on-farm insights from Wayne and guidance on protecting your flock during this challenging AI season, listen to the latest episode of At the Farm Gate.
For personalised biosecurity advice and tailored support for your farm, contact us to find out how Livetec can help you.
