BioSec Bob here on Monday, August 31, 2026 — let’s get right into it.
The USDA is confirming new H5N1 avian flu detections in both poultry flocks and dairy cattle, according to Farms.com. The agency didn’t specify which states are affected in their latest confirmation, but the virus continues to show up across commercial and farm operations. This marks another round of positive cases as H5N1 remains active in the country heading into fall.
Over in the Philippines, Manila Bulletin is reporting that local hog producers are raising concerns about delays in government-backed swine repopulation efforts. Farmers say the delays are hampering their ability to rebuild herds and get back to normal production levels after earlier losses. The repopulation program has been slower than producers expected, and they’re pushing for faster government action to support recovery.
Turning to nutrition and disease prevention on the poultry side — TheDailyNewsOnline.com has reported on research showing that wine byproducts could reduce chicken farms’ reliance on antibiotics. The compounds left over from wine production show promise as a natural alternative to help maintain flock health without routine antibiotic use. The work is still in development, but it’s drawing attention from producers looking for tools to lower antimicrobial use while keeping birds healthy.
Back to swine disease concerns — Kilimo News is reporting a suspected African Swine Fever outbreak in Sabatia, in Vihiga County. The outbreak hasn’t been officially confirmed yet, but authorities are investigating after suspected cases were identified in local herds. Kenya continues to watch for ASF spread across its production regions.
The Philippine News Agency reports that Albay province has put a ban on hogs and pork products coming in from Camarines Sur due to ongoing African Swine Fever cases there. The provincial restriction is meant to prevent ASF from spreading to Albay’s remaining herds, though it creates immediate logistical challenges for producers moving animals and pork across provincial lines.
Keep your biosecurity protocols locked down — disease activity’s not taking a holiday.