Avian influenza detected at a premises in Pembrokeshire
Chief veterinary officer for Wales Christianne Glossop has confirmed the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 in poultry at a large site in Pembrokeshire. This is the second confirmed case of avian influenza in Wales within the last week.
A 3km Protection Zone and a 10km Surveillance Zone have been declared by the Welsh government. Bird movements and gatherings are restricted and all holdings that keep birds must be declared. According to the Welsh government, the measures are stricter in the 3km Protection Zone.
As is usual, the UK health agencies advise that the risk to public health from the virus is very low and the UK food standards agencies also advise that avian influenzas pose a very low food safety risk for UK consumers.
Remain vigilant
The Welsh government said it is “vital” keepers of birds “remain vigilant”. It has advised industry members to look out for signs of the disease such as increased mortality, respiratory distress and drops in food or water intake, or egg production.
According to the government statement, strict biosecurity measures should be applied by keepers to prevent any materials, equipment, vehicles, clothing, feed or bedding that could have been contaminated from wild birds coming onto your premises.
Deputy chief veterinary officer for Wales, Dr Gavin Watkins said: “Good biosecurity is always key in protecting animals from disease.”
Full details on preventing the disease are available on the government’s website.
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