Animals > Animal Diseases > Hatchery Program  

Hatchery Program

The hatchery can become an indirect source of disease in the poultry industry and, for that reason, proper disease control is essential. Eggs from a diseased flock may arrive at the hatchery carrying potentially harmful micro-organisms. When these contaminated eggs are incubated, bacteria, moulds or viruses in or on the eggs may multiply. When the eggs hatch, thousands of organisms are released into the hatchery environment, creating a real risk of chick contamination. When the chicks are placed on a farm, an epidemic may result, regardless of where the farm is located. It is for these reasons that CFIA maintains a hatchery registration and inspection program. The program is designed to provide a healthy environment for the production of improved and disease-free flocks for the domestic and export markets.