Housing Of Free Range And Organic Birds In Fife Supported By NFU

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Main Category: Bird Flu / Avian Flu
Also Included In: Veterinary;  Nutrition / Diet
Article Date: 07 Apr 2006 - 14:00 PDT

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The National Farmers' Union (NFU) said in a statement that it supports the decision of the Scottish Executive and Chief Veterinary Officer to order the housing of free range and organic birds (poultry) beyond the 10km Surveillance Zone.

(10km Surveillance Zone = A radius of 10km around where the dead H5N1 infected swan was found in Fife, Scotland).

The Montrose basin is included in the extended area. This is an area of wetland frequented by many geese, swans and wild birds.

NFU President, Peter Kendall, , said "It is likely that the dead bird was a native mute swan, so the caution being exercised by the Scottish Office and the Chief Veterinary Officer is wise."

Peter Kendall has also advised NFU members to review their biosecurity arrangements and to do everything possible to avoid attracting wild birds which could mix with commercial poultry. He asked that food and water supplies be kept under cover. All farmers should review their contingency plans for housing their birds (should it become necessary).

He added that this is a case of a single bird infected with the H5N1 strain of A1. It is concern for poultry health, he said, but not public health or consumers.

Link to web site of the National Farmers' Union.

Written by: Christian Nordqvist
Editor: Medical News Today
Copyright: Medical News Today
Not to be reproduced without permission of Medical News Today

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