Welsh government urges vigilance
Poultry keepers in Wales are being urged to practice good biosecurity, minimise contact with wild birds and be vigilant for signs of avian influenza, amid increasing concerns about the H5N8 strain.
There have been recent reports of H5N8 outbreaks in wild birds and poultry in Germany, Croatia, Austria, Denmark, Hungary, the Netherlands, Poland and Switzerland. As a result, the risk level for avian influenza entering the UK via wild birds has been upped from 'low' to 'medium'.
The Welsh government is therefore advising poultry keepers to monitor their birds regularly and discuss any concerns with their vet without delay.
Christianne Glossop, the chief veterinary officer for Wales, said: "Whilst none of the cases of avian influenza to date have been located in the UK, poultry keepers need to closely monitor their flocks for any signs of disease. In particular respiratory distress, diarrhoea, fewer eggs being laid, loss of appetite and discolouration of neck and throat. Avian influenza is a notifiable disease, and so any suspicion should be reported immediately.
"All poultry keepers should also continue their efforts to maintain high levels of biosecurity to minimise contact between their own flocks and wild birds."
Good biosecurity practices advised by the government include:
- Thorough cleansing and disinfection of clothing, equipment and vehicles before and after their use
- Thorough cleansing and disinfection of housing at the end of each production cycle
- Ensuring that feed and food stores are covered and minimising other opportunities for direct and indirect contact with wild birds
- Limiting the number of visitors on to your premises and for those that do, ensure that they understand and adhere to your biosecurity requirements, these should be reviewed and updated regularly
- Having disinfectant available at your farm entrances for those entering and leaving to use
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