Published on Nov. 4, 2025
Inside the Flock: A Conversation with Evan VanBeusekom
In this edition of Inside the Flock, we sit down with Evan VanBeusekom, Senior Technical & Regulatory Veterinarian, to explore the latest developments in turkey health. From vaccine rollouts to biosecurity strategies, Evan shares his insights on the challenges and innovations shaping the industry today.
Can you share some insights into the REO trials we've been conducting over the past year? What have been the key learnings or outcomes so far?
We’ve been working on REO virus since I started here about three years ago. It’s been a major focus because we heard our customers’ concerns and wanted to respond. We’ve been investigating maternal antibodies and titers, aiming to push them to protective levels for cross-protection. While not every step has been successful, our goal is to develop a policy that offers long-lasting protection. Birds may still contract REO virus, but we’re working to reduce symptoms and improve outcomes in the field.
How is the adoption of the aMPV vaccine progressing in the field? Have you observed any notable improvements compared to last year?
We began vaccinating in early 2025, February for breeding customers and March for commercial growers. Since then, we’ve seen reduced mortality and better success in getting birds to market without morbidity. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, and we’re still learning. Our European counterparts have custom programs, and we’re heading in that direction too. We’re sharing data, analyzing vaccine types and booster strategies, and even exploring water administration as an alternative to aerosol spray. It's early days, and so we're still learning quite a bit to refine our approach.
With HPAI remaining a constant threat, what are the most critical steps growers should take to reduce risk? How is Hybrid supporting these efforts?
High-path avian influenza has been around for over a decade. I encountered the first Minnesota flock in 2015 and learned a lot from that experience. What’s changed is our mindset—there’s no longer a “high-risk season.” It’s always high risk. I would say that growers should, of course focus on your biosecurity program, but they should also pay close attention to factors like prevailing winds and ventilation sources to minimize aerosol spread.
What innovations or research are you most excited about in poultry health?
We’re in unprecedented times. In the last three years, we’ve seen more novel diseases than ever before. One of the most exciting innovations is the Pneumovirus vaccine. We’re exploring timing, delivery methods like water administration, and strain-specific strategies. I’m also still passionate about REO virus—anything we can do to reduce mortality and morbidity is a win for our growers.
What is your favorite part about being part of the Hybrid team?
I love problem-solving, and this role allows me to help both internal and external customers. What stands out most is our customer-first mindset. Every decision is made with the question: “How will this impact our customers?” If the answer isn’t positive, we don’t move forward. That level of care and attention is what makes working here so rewarding.
