Winter Chill: Poultry Farms Face Disease Risk; Expert Shares Safety Tips for Chicks, Chickens

• Dr. Ram Ottalwar, a veterinarian from Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, warns poultry farmers about increased disease risks in winter, including pneumonia, crushing, and bird flu.
• Chicks huddle in cold, leading to crushing deaths; small farms and backyard poultry are particularly vulnerable.
• Farmers use halogen bulbs or 'gorsi' (brazier) for warmth and cover coops with tarpaulin/sacks to block cold air.
• Migratory birds increase bird flu risk; timely vaccination is crucial for prevention.
• Boost immunity with lukewarm jaggery water, garlic, Vitamin C, multi-vitamin syrup, and protein-rich feed.

Why It Matters: Poultry farmers must prioritize warmth, hygiene, vaccination, and nutrition to protect chickens from winter diseases.