Chief vet urges vigilance as avian flu cases rise.
An Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) will come into force in Wales on Thursday (13 November) to protect poultry and captive birds.
The AIPZ applies to all keepers of 50 or more birds, as well as all keepers who sell or give away eggs or poultry products, even if they keep fewer than 50 birds.
Compulsory housing will apply to flocks of less than 50 birds of any species if eggs or poultry products are sold or given away.
The move comes in response to a growing number of cases in both kept and wild birds across Great Britain. Additional biosecurity requirements will also be introduced for the gamebird sector, which also saw outbreaks last season.
Deputy first minister with responsibility for Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies, said: “We keep measures under active review. Since the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone was introduced at the start of the year, the risk of disease has recently increased further, and Wales is now facing a very high level of avian influenza risk.
“The decision has not been taken lightly, but it is necessary to protect both our bird populations and the livelihoods of poultry keepers across Wales.”
Chief veterinary officer for Wales, Dr Richard Irvine, said: “We are seeing a sharp increase in the number of avian influenza cases in kept and wild birds…housing measures can help protect birds from the threat of disease, but they are not a substitute for stringent hygiene and biosecurity.
“I strongly advise keepers to act now and familiarise themselves with the steps they need to take to protect their birds. This includes using the mandatory biosecurity checklists available online.
He added: “Everybody should continue to remain vigilant, report any suspect cases of disease immediately, and ensure they are following the mandatory enhanced biosecurity requirements to protect your birds.”
Image (C) Galdric PS/Shutterstock.com
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