Protect Your Birds From Risk Of Avian Influenza (bird Flu), DEFRA, UK

Main Category: Bird Flu / Avian Flu
Also Included In: Flu / Cold / SARS;  Nutrition / Diet;  Public Health
Article Date: 13 Feb 2006 - 17:00 PDT

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-- Feed and water your birds indoors to avoid contamination by wildbirds and other animals.

-- Make sure your premises are tidy and clean. Spilled feed, litter and standing water attract wild birdsand vermin.

-- Keep your birds separate from wild birds, waterfowl, pets andother animals. Control vermin.

-- Keep visitors and their vehicles away from your birds as far as possible. If they must have access, makesure vehicles and equipment are clean.

-- Make sure your clothes, footwear and hands are clean, before and after contact with birds. Any essential visitors should do the same.

-- Avoid sharing equipment. If you do have to share, make sure it is cleansed and disinfected before and after use.

-- Buy feed from a mill or supplier that operates in accordance with Defra and Agricultural Industries Confederation Codes of Practice. Supply clean, fresh drinking water.

-- Be vigilant when purchasing new stock. Use reputable sources. Isolate new birds and birds you havetaken off your premises (for example, to a show).

-- Look out for signs of disease. Increased mortality, falling egg production and respiratory distress maybeearly signs of a disease problem.

-- If you suspect disease, act quickly and consult your vet. Birdflu and Newcastle disease arenotifiable diseases and must be reported to your local Divisional VeterinaryManager.

Good biosecurity is vital. Many diseases, not only Avian influenza but also others like Newcastle disease, salmonella and campylobacter are spread by direct bird-to-bird contact through secretions and faeces, and indirectly through contaminated feed, water, equipment, boots etc.

If in doubt about what to do, seek advice fromyour vet. For more information Visit the Defra website at http://www.defra.gov.uk or phone the Helpline on 08459 33 55 77.

PROTECT YOUR BIRDS FROM THE RISKOFAVIAN INFLUENZA (Bird flu)

Other useful websites

Health Protection Agency:
http://www.hpa.org.uk

Health & Safety Executive:
http://www.hse.gov.uk

Department of Health:
http://www.dh.gov.uk

http://www.defra.gov.uk

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