Avian influenza (Bird flu): Avian Influenza Stakeholder meeting, 4 May 2006
| Attending:
Chris Davis – Game Conservancy Trust |
Via telephone: |
1. Update on the H7N3 incidents in Norfolk – Fred Landeg
Since the confirmed case in the broiler breeder flock in Dereham, Norfolk and the two suspected cases in free range layer flocks nearby there have been no further incidents. Suspect cases continue to be reported, particularly in the Norfolk area, but these are routine investigations for notifiable disease and have not produced positive laboratory results. Whilst we are currently dealing with low pathogenic avian influenza Defra is acting proportionately given the risk that the H5 and H7 strains of the disease can mutate into highly pathogenic avian influenza.
A 1km restriction zone is in place around each of the premises. Movements of poultry and poultry products may only take place under licence for the Animal Health. Additional surveillance of premises with over 50 birds within 3km of suspected premises and infected premises is to be carried out. This is not the same as a restriction zone, it is further precautionary surveillance.
It was confirmed that further testing on the broiler breeder flock infected with low pathogenic H7N3 has proved negative for highly pathogenic avian influenza.
How much additional surveillance has already been carried out?The decision was taken earlier in the day however it is anticipated that the additional surveillance will be carried out quickly.
Why are flocks under 50 birds not part of the additional surveillance?Based on the current risk assessment Defra has concluded that outdoor flocks of over 50 birds present a greater risk. Owners of backyard flocks are encouraged to practice good biosecurity.
Is there a housing requirement around the restricted areas?No. Based on the current risk assessment there is no requirement for bird owners to house their birds. They are urged to continue to practice good biosecurity.
What worker protection steps were taken on the infected and suspected premises?
Everyone on the premises wore Personal Protection Equipment (PPE). They were also offered Tami Flu and seasonal flu vaccine. All queries regarding conjunctivitis were investigated and apart from the first case have revealed no further infection.
2. Update on current control policy – Sarah Thomas
Defra is in the process of reviewing how the Norfolk incidents were responded to. We have ensured that we are working closely with the Food Standards, Health Protection Agency and the Department of Health.
Are the restrictions on the other premises owned by Banham’s Poultry still in place?
The restrictions are still in place. They were put in place as a precautionary measure. Those premises shown to have had no recent risk contact with the infected premises will have their restrictions lifted on the basis of a veterinary risk assessment. Where there has been a risk contact with the infected premises there will be a waiting period of 15 days from the contact date. After 15 days tests will be carried out and if these prove negative then restrictions shall be lifted.
Why was the amendment made to the Welfare of Animals (Slaughter or Killing) Regulations 1995 to allow the use of Ventilation Shutdown as a means of killing birds?
Ventilation shut-down, or VSD, is a necessary tool to add to Defra’s options to combat avian influenza. It will not be the method of choice. It would only be authorised where we have no other method that can be practically employed and the disease situation, with any human health implications, make it necessary. VSD will have to be authorised by officials representing the secretary of state in each individual case as being the only practical alternative. Only the state veterinary service will have the authority to carry out VSD.
Action: John Maslin to organise a meeting with Industry and Welfare organisations to discuss the issue further.
3. Update on the trade implications of the Norfolk incidents – Nigel Mattingly
The Norfolk incidents have produced a greater number of export bans than the Cellardyke incident. This is because the UK has lost its avian influenza free status due to the Norfolk incidents occurring in domestic poultry. The UK retains its highly pathogenic free status however UK officials are unable to sign certificates which demand the absence of avian influenza.
The current trade situation varies according to country requirements. Some countries have implemented total bans and some have restricted their bans to the Norfolk area. Producers who have consignments on route are urged to contact their importers for specific advice. Advice is also available on the Defra website and Defra is in regular contact with stakeholders.
Action: Edward Hogg to distribute copies of a table listing countries that have placed restrictions on UK poultry exports.
4. AOB
Will Defra and Animal Health be conducting a lesson learned exercise following the Norfolk incidents?
Yes. Defra is constantly reviewing its policy. The SVS are also reviewing how the incidents were dealt with.
Have bird gatherings been banned across Norfolk?
No. Based on the current veterinary risk assessment bird gatherings can still take place under a general license across the country. Bird gatherings are not permitted within the 1km restricted zones set up around the suspected and infected premises in Norfolk.
Page last modified:
November 14, 2007 13:35