Scottish Executive Declaration On Avian Flu

Main Category: Bird Flu / Avian Flu
Also Included In: Veterinary;  Nutrition / Diet;  Public Health
Article Date: 06 Apr 2006 - 15:00 PDT

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An Avian Influenza virus (of subtype H5) has been identified in a dead swan found on the Fife coast.

The best defence - as with all exotic animal diseases - is a high level of awareness and good biosecurity. This page provides information on the disease and the precautions that can be taken to minimise the risk of its introduction and spread.

The European Commission Decision (Commission Decision 2006/115/EC) relating to Avian Influenza in wild birds has been transposed into Scottish legislation by the Avian Influenza (H5N1 in Wild Birds) (Scotland) Order 2006 and requires us to set up Protection and Surveillance Zones, and apply biosecurity measures and movement controls within them.

A declaratory order showing a map of the extent and location of theses zones has also been brought into force.

Avian influenza viruses can be classified according to their ability to cause severe disease (pathogenicity) as either highly pathogenic or low pathogenic. For further detail please see our section on the significance of the different subtypes of AI.

Advice for the general public

If you find one or more dead swans/wild fowl (ducks and geese), more than 3 dead birds of the same species or more than 5 dead birds of different species, in the same place, you should contact the helpline (08459 33 55 77). Currently the helpline is available between the following hours: Monday - Friday, 8am to 8pm and Saturday - Sunday, 9am to 6pm. You will be asked for details of your finding and its location.

It is extremely unlikely that any birds you come across will have avian influenza; however, they could have other bird diseases, so you should not handle them. For the same reason, basic hygiene precautions should always be taken when around any wild or domestic birds, and hands should be washed before eating or drinking.

Frequently Asked Questions

To answer any questions on various aspects of avian influenza (including bird shows, preventative measures and contingency plans etc.), visit the Frequently Asked Questions section or try some of the Useful Links.

Surveillance

We are conducting a series of surveillance programmes as part of the EU-wide early warning system.

Contingency Plans

In the event of avian influenza occurring in Scotland, we would activate Scotland's Avian Influenza Contingency Plan. This co-ordinates with the well-established contingency plans held by every local Animal Health Divisional Office and is designed to ensure the rapid control and eradication of avian influenza in Scotland.

Biosecurity

Biosecurity is the best way to protect your flock from a wide range of diseases - not just avian influenza. The guidance found in our biosecurity guidance section provides key information and a number of practical steps which poultry keepers can take. A key message is to minimize the contact your flock has with wild birds.

Great Britain Poultry Register

There is a legal requirement for all commercial poultry keepers with 50 or more birds to register their premises. The register opened on December 9, 2005 and has remained open beyond the statutory end date of February 28, 2006 to allow for the continued voluntary registration of premises with less than 50 birds.

The call centre will also take late mandatory registrations (of premises with 50 or more birds) for those who haven't had an opportunity to register to date. The register will be used to gather essential information about certain species of birds held on commercial premises in Great Britain, helping us to maximise our preparedness to respond to disease and enhancing communication with the poultry industry. For further information on how to register go to the link at Great Britain Poultry Register.

Further queries

Should you have any queries not answered here, then please contact us at AIQueries@scotland.gsi.gov.uk.

The Scottish Executive, Agriculture

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