Avian Influenza - Still A Disease Of Birds, UK

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) President Nick Blayney underlined the critical role of surveillance amid news of Avian Influenza having been confirmed in a three swans in the Chesil Beach area in Dorset.



"While we must never be complacent about the risk of human disease" he said, "Avian Influenza is a disease of birds and given the number of outbreaks throughout the world in recent years it is important that we remain vigilant. In this case vigilance would seem to have enabled the arrival of the disease to have been promptly identified. Domestic flock owners, not only in the vicinity but countrywide, are reminded of the need to protect their birds by following biosecurity guidelines, for instance those produced by the Poultry Club of Great Britain, and to continually monitor their birds' health. Members of the public too can help the surveillance effort" said Mr Blayney "by remaining vigilant and reporting any dramatic local incident such as a large number of dead, dying or sick birds to the Defra Helpline on 08459 335577."




Notes:



1. For further information please contact the BVA Press Office on 020 7636 6541 or mediabva.



2. View Poultry Club of Great Britain's advice to poultry owners.

British Veterinary Association