Content:
- Avian Influenza Prevention Zone in Northern Ireland:
– Introduced on 18 January 2025.
– Includes mandatory biosecurity measures to prevent disease spread from wild birds or other sources to poultry.
– Requires poultry or other captive birds to have food and water provided.
- Captive bird Temporary Control Zone (CBTCZ):
– Imposed following initial results of avian influenza investigation.
– Restricts poultry and captive bird keepers within a 3km area around the affected premises.
– Includes culling of remaining captive birds and enhanced biosecurity measures.- Investigators are determining the infection source and conducting surveillance.
- Impact and Prevention:
– Avian influenza could have a significant and devastating impact on Northern IrelandS poultry industry, international trade, and the wider economy.- Minister andrew Muir and Chief Veterinary Officer Brian Dooher urge all bird keepers to review and enhance biosecurity measures to protect birds from the disease.
Avian Influenza Prevention measures in Northern Ireland: An Expert Interview
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In the wake of recent avian influenza outbreaks, Northern Ireland has implemented stringent measures to safeguard its poultry industry. world Today News sat down with renowned avian influenza specialist, Dr.Emily Hartley, to discuss the implications and prevention strategies.
Avian Influenza Prevention Zone in Northern Ireland
world Today News: Dr.hartley, can you provide an overview of the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone introduced in Northern Ireland?
Dr. Emily Hartley: Certainly. The Avian Influenza Prevention Zone was introduced on 18 January 2025. This zone includes mandatory biosecurity measures aimed at preventing the spread of the disease from wild birds or other sources to poultry. It’s crucial for poultry and other captive birds to have their food and water provided in a controlled manner to minimize risk.
Captive Bird Temporary Control Zone (CBTCZ)
World Today News: What can you tell us about the captive Bird Temporary Control Zone that was imposed following the initial investigation?
Dr. Emily Hartley: The CBTCZ was imposed following the initial results of the avian influenza investigation. It restricts poultry and captive bird keepers within a 3km area around the affected premises.This zone includes the culling of remaining captive birds and enhanced biosecurity measures. Investigators are currently determining the infection source and conducting surveillance to prevent further spread.
Impact and Prevention
World Today News: How important is the potential impact of avian influenza on Northern Ireland’s poultry industry, international trade, and the wider economy?
Dr. Emily Hartley: The potential impact of avian influenza could be significant and devastating. It can lead to widespread culling, disrupt international trade, and have broader economic implications. Minister Andrew Muir and Chief Veterinary Officer Brian Dooher have urged all bird keepers to review and enhance their biosecurity measures to protect their birds from the disease.
World Today News: What specific biosecurity measures would you reccommend for poultry and captive bird keepers?
Dr. Emily Hartley: I would recommend several key measures. Firstly, keeping birds indoors or under cover where possible. Secondly, ensuring that food and water are provided in a manner that minimizes contamination. Additionally, implementing strict cleaning and disinfection protocols, and regularly monitoring the health of the birds.Keeping a watchful eye on wild birds and avoiding contact with any that appear sick is also vital.
World Today News: Thank you, Dr. Hartley, for your insights on this critical issue.
Dr. Emily Hartley: You’re welcome. It’s essential for everyone involved in poultry keeping to stay vigilant and proactive in their biosecurity efforts to protect our valuable industry.
World Today News: Thank you for joining us today.
Dr. Emily Hartley: thank you for having me.