Avian Influenza Update Winter 2020/2021
12th November 2020
AVIAN INFLUENZA UPDATE WINTER 2020/2021
All producers and livestock keepers, please be aware of the increased risk from Avian Influenza during the winter months – the Netherlands has recently reported an outbreak of H5 HPAI (Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza) in broiler breeders. This news follows a recent and separate positive result in wild swans elsewhere in the country.
This has prompted the UK animal health authorities to increase the level of risk of AI from low to MEDIUM.
Poultry sites within the exclusion zones of the affected Dutch premises are under movement restrictions and active surveillance is underway in the region.
Livestock keepers, zoos, and pet bird owners have been advised to keep their birds inside and away from potential contact with wild bird faecal material.
These are the latest measures taken to counter the spread of the new strain of bird flu, which is thought to have spread from western Russia and Kazakhstan. Similar action has also been taken in France and Poland.
No human infections from the bird flu strain H5N8 have been reported and the risk of transmission is currently considered low.
In order to protect themselves and the wider national flock, and associated industries, all producers and livestock keepers must ensure stringent biosecurity measures are in place – please refer to the Avian Influenza protocol provided along with your Veterinary Flock Health and Welfare plan.
Remain vigilant for any signs of disease, including but not limited to:
- Marked drop in feed and water consumption
- Lethargy
- Morbidity/generalised “sickness”
- Notable increase in mortality
If you have any concerns, please contact the practice immediately to discuss with a veterinarian who will endeavour to provide any support as required.
The Crowshall Veterinary Team