Interventions in live poultry markets for the control of avian influenza

Abstract

Background Live poultry markets (LPMs) pose a threat to public health by promoting the amplification and dissemination of avian influenza viruses (AIVs), thus providing the ideal setting for zoonotic influenza transmission to humans. Objective This project aims at evaluating the available literature investigating the impact of different interventions implemented in LPMs to control the emergence and dissemination of zoonotic influenza strains. Methods 16 papers were identified through a literature search in the PubMed, MEDLINE and Web of Science databases. Relevant findings were extracted and critically evaluated. Results Collectively, the data suggest a significant impact of temporary LPMclosure, overnight-depopulation of the market and periodic rest days on reducing (i) AIV-isolation rates in LPMs and (ii) influenza incidence in humans. The findings indicate the poultry’s length of stay in the market as a crucial control point to interrupt the AIV-replication cycle within LPMs. Conclusions The evidence from this review endorses permanent LPM-closure as a long-term objective, although its economic and socio-political implications favour less drastic interventions, e.g. weekly rest days, for implementation in the short-term, warranting further investigation.