“Avian flu is a cunning and determined virus and could wipe out your flock within a matter of days.'
Northern Ireland’s chief vet has warned bird flu "doesn’t take a break for Christmas" and could wipe out whole flocks in a "matter of days".This year, there has been one confirmed case in a captive bird flock since April and 21 among wild birds.Strict housing requirements were put in place on November 28 following the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone introduced by former Agriculture Minister Edwin Poots in October.
He is urging bird keepers to take all the necessary biosecurity measures to prevent further spread of the illness, which has the potential to devastate Northern Ireland’s £450 million poultry industry.“I therefore want to thank all of you for your efforts in stopping an incursion of AI across NI this winter, but it doesn’t mean we can drop our guard.“It will exploit any gaps in your biosecurity, so it is vital that your check this every day.
In addition to mandatory housing, DAERA has also developed a biosecurity self assessment tool to help bird keepers review their biosecurity arrangements.“These actions should become a regular, repetitive and instinctive part of your bird-owning routines,” he added.“These are not one-off events, but something you should do every single day, and come as naturally as providing food and water for your birds.
“This will enable us to contact you with important disease information, giving you the best opportunity to protect your birds."
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