Hygiene Protocols for the Prevention and Control of Diseases (Particularly Beak and Feather Disease) in Australian Birds
Department of the Environment and Heritage, 2006
Until a method of in vitro assessment of the viability of BFDV is available, the effectiveness of disinfectants on the virus cannot be assessed. Thus it was necessary to review the efficacy of disinfectants on closely related viruses, namely PCV and CAV. Read the review 'The Effectiveness of Disinfectants used on Viruses Closely Related to BFDV' (PDF - 83 KB)
From the review, it can be inferred that both Virkon S and glutaraldehyde, when used on an organic matter-free surface at the higher recommended concentration (2%), and for a contact time of 10 minutes, will inactivate any viable BFDV that might be present on the surface. Of the two, Virkon S is recommended as it is safer to use near humans and birds. Once a system of growing BFDV and assessing its viability is developed, its susceptibility to these disinfectants can be assessed. Virkon S has low toxicity to humans and birds and is effective against all viruses. It is not approved for use on human skin.
Virkon S at 1% is the only disinfectant recommended for use against all families of viruses by the AUSVETPLAN.
For disinfection of waste and equipment and disinfection procedures, see Section 8.