Cayman Islands confirms poultry disease outbreak, says no risk to humans

The Cayman Islands Department of Agriculture (DoA) has confirmed outbreaks of infectious coryza, a highly contagious disease affecting poultry, across the territory. While the disease can significantly impact bird health and reduce egg production, officials have stressed that it poses no risk to human health and does not render poultry meat or eggs unsafe for consumption.

Infectious coryza is a respiratory illness caused by the bacterium Avibacterium paragallinarum, affecting only birds. Symptoms include facial swelling, nasal and eye discharge, sneezing, and lethargy. Although mortality rates in adult birds are typically low, the disease can lead to a reduction in egg production ranging from 10 to 40 percent. The DoA is actively working to support local poultry farmers through ongoing surveillance, facilitating access to treatments, and planning future vaccination initiatives.

Director of Agriculture, Wilbur Welcome, stated, “Our priority remains safeguarding local food production while equipping farmers with the tools and knowledge needed to manage and prevent the spread within their flocks.” The disease spreads rapidly through direct contact with infected birds, including those that remain carriers after recovery. It can also be transmitted via contaminated feed, water, equipment, and even through the air in poorly ventilated conditions.

While affected flocks can be treated with antibiotics, this does not eliminate the carrier state. Farmers are advised to provide supportive care, such as vitamins and electrolytes, and maintain clean housing. The DoA is urging enhanced biosecurity measures, including disinfection, isolation of new birds, and limiting visitor access. Furthermore, the government is procuring infectious coryza vaccines, which will be made available to farmers along with guidance on administration. Producers are encouraged to monitor their flocks closely for respiratory symptoms and report any suspected cases promptly to veterinary services.

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Our priority remains safeguarding local food production while equipping farmers with the tools and knowledge needed to manage and prevent the spread within their flocks.