Scottish poultry producers are being urged to be vigilant after a suspected case of bird flu was identified in chickens on a farm near Dunfermline.
A 1km protection zone has been set up around Craigies Poultry Farm near Bowershall after initial tests on dead birds at the premises indicated what authorities described as a “notifiable” but “low pathogenic” strain of Avian Influenza (H5).Further test are beingcarried out to confirm the strain.
In order to limit the further spread of disease, all birds at the suspect premises are to be humanely culled and a 1km temporary control zone has been put in place around the farm.
Within this zone a range of different controls are in place which include restrictions of the movement of poultry, carcasses, eggs, used poultry litter and manure and restrictions on bird gatherings.
Scotland’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Sheila Voas said: “We have taken immediate action to contain this case as part of our robust procedures for dealing swiftly with avian flu.
.@scotgov's map of the 1km bird flu protection zone around a Fife farm https://t.co/NbZV7PESTD pic.twitter.com/5Q0IIeZZkM
— Richard Rooney (@C_RRooney) January 11, 2016
“Evidence suggests this is a low severity form of the virus however we are taking action to ensure that the disease does not spread or develop into a more severe form.
“I would urge poultry keepers in the surrounding area to be vigilant for any signs of disease and to ensure they are maintaining good biosecurity on their premises.”
There have been a number of recent cases of avian influenza across continental Europe in recent months including three cases in other parts of the UK in 2015.
Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs Richard Lochhead added: “Livestock owners and the general public should be assured that we are doing everything we can to control and prevent the spread of the disease. Any poultry producers who are concerned should immediately seek veterinary advice.”
Dr Jim McMenamin, Consultant Epidemiologist and Respiratory Infection lead for Health Protection Scotland said: “Based on what we know about this strain of avian influenza and the actions that have been taken, the risk to human health in this case is considered very low.
“Health Protection Scotland continues to work closely with Animal Health throughout this investigation.”
Food Standards Scotland have advised that bird flu does not pose a food safety risk for UK consumers.
Anyone who suspects an animal may be affected by a notifiable disease must report it to their local Animal Plant and Health Agency (formerly AHVLA) office.
Contact details can be found here.
As part of routine wildlife disease surveillance post-mortem examinations of birds are undertaken in incidents where five birds are found dead in the same location and at the same time.
Members of the public can also report these incidents to Defra’s national helpline on 03459 335577.