Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 8th November 2024
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Northern Ireland bird keepers urged to prepare for avian flu
“Make improvements where possible to reduce the risk of transmission of disease to your flocks” – Brian Dooher.
Chief vet highlights importance of good biosecurity.

Bird keepers in Northern Ireland have been urged to prepare for the increased threat of avian influenza this winter.

The appeal, made by Northern Ireland’s Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), comes after highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N5 was detected in commercial poultry at a premises in England.

The case, confirmed on 5 November by the UK chief veterinary officer, was the first case of avian influenza found in Great Britain since February.

According to the most recent Veterinary Risk Assessment for Northern Ireland, while the risk level of avian influenza for poultry flocks with suboptimal biosecurity is moderate, the risk level where biosecurity standards are high is low.

In response, DAERA is urging all bird keepers to follow high standards of biosecurity.

Brian Dooher, Northern Ireland’s chief veterinary officer, said: “Given the positive wild bird findings at various locations across Great Britain over recent weeks, the start of winter migration, and now the first confirmed case of HPAI H5N5 in poultry in England this season, consistently high standards of biosecurity are essential.

“I encourage all owners of poultry, game or pet birds, whether you keep one bird or hundreds, to act now and carefully consider your biosecurity protection. Make improvements where possible to reduce the risk of transmission of disease to your flocks.

“If avian flu were to enter any flock, including backyard or hobby flocks, it would have a devastating effect on the poultry industry and would significantly impact international trade.”

Avian influenza is a notifiable disease in Northern Ireland. Anyone who suspects a case must report it to their local Divisional Veterinary Office.

Image © Shutterstock

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

New roadshow brings free flea and tick checks to dog owners

News Story 1
 A nationwide roadshow offering free, personalised parasite risk assessments and flea and tick checks will be visiting popular dog events across the UK.

The All About Dogs shows in Norfolk and Knebworth, will be among the first events to host MSD Animal Health's Big Parasite Check campaign, which aims to address common misconceptions and highlight the importance of year-round parasite protection.

A total of six dog-friendly events will feature the free clinics from summer through to winter. Full roadshow dates and locations are available on The Big Parasite Check map or through your local MSD Animal Health Representative.  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BVA urges 'continued vigilance' over bluetongue

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has urged vigilance following a concerning rise in Bluetongue (BTV) cases in sheep and cattle.

In a recent statement, the BVA noted that members are reporting more severe clinical signs and higher mortality rates than in previous years.

'We know that farm vets are working hard to support farmers and animals affected by this outbreak, during what is an extremely difficult time for all involved,' they stated. 'Continued vigilance to identify disease early is vital and vaccination remains the best way of protecting animals from this disease.'