Texas A&M tests far-UVC light to combat airborne pathogens in poultry farms

Researchers at Texas A&M University are pioneering the use of far-UVC light to reduce airborne disease transmission in commercial poultry houses, potentially revolutionising disinfection methods amidst ongoing avian influenza challenges.

Texas A&M University researchers are preparing to test far-UVC light as a potential way to cut airborne pathogens in commercial poultry houses, after the latest avian influenza wave drove mass culls and pushed egg prices higher. The work is being led by Morgan Farnell, an avian microbiology and immunology professor, and Ziteng Xu, who focuses on smart technologies in poultry production.

According to Texas A&M, the project is moving into its final phase and will examine whether far-UVC can reduce pathogen loads without harming birds. Unlike conventional germicidal ultraviolet light, far-UVC is designed to inactivate microbes without penetrating deeply enough to damage skin or eyes, making it attractive for use in occupied environments.

The study will use commercial stocking densities at the Barbara J. Huffman and William M. (Bill) Huffman ’53 Poultry Science Farm Complex and will measure air quality before and after exposure, including indicator organisms such as aerobic bacteria, coliforms and Staphylococcus aureus. Xu’s team will also assess dust interference, bird behaviour, growth and circadian effects.

The researchers say the findings could inform broader disinfection systems for poultry, and possibly for swine and dairy units. The two-year project is backed by a $2 million USDA grant under the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Poultry Innovation Grand Challenge.