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PROTECT YOUR BIRDS FROM THE RISK OF AVIAN INFLUENZA (Bird Flu) The following advice has recently been issued to all poultry keepers by the Department For Food, Environment and Rural Affairs (DEFRA): • Feed and water your birds indoors to avoid contamination by wild birds and other animals. • Make sure your premises are tidy and clean. Spilled feed, litter and standing water attract wild birds and vermin. • Keep birds separate from wild birds, waterfowl, pets and other animals. Control vermin. • Keep visitors and their vehicles away from your birds as far as possible. If they must have access, make sure 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. • Supply clean, fresh drinking water. • Be vigilant when purchasing new birds. Use reputable sources. Isolate new birds and birds you have taken off your premises (for example, to a show). • Look out for signs of disease. Increased mortality, falling egg production and respiratory distress may be early signs of a disease problem. • If you suspect disease, act quickly and consult your vet. Bird flu and Newcastle disease are notifiable diseases and must be reported to you local Divisional Veterinary Manager. 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 from your vet. For More Information |
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