The source of the recent H5N1 avian flu outbreak at the Bernard Matthews farm in Suffolk is uncertain. But whether wild birds or the poultry industry are to blame, good biosecurity practices can help protect flocks against the virus.
Here are FWi’s top tips:
1. Hygiene
Disinfection is the key element. Make sure all visitors and employees wash their hands and use footbaths, placed at the entrance of all poultry houses, before and after contact with birds. Protective clothing should be disinfected, laundered or disposed of after use. And all footwear, equipment and vehicles should be cleaned regularly on entering and exiting the farm. Try to avoid sharing equipment and vehicles between farms.
2. Visitors
Only essential visitors and vehicles should enter the farm unit or be in contact with birds
Record visitor’s details in a visitor’s book, documenting details such as the time entered and exited, other farms visited recently or any illnesses.
3. Vigilance
Contact DEFRA or the State Veterinary Service immediately if you suspect avian flu in your flock. Typical symptoms are swelling of the head, bluish discoloration of the comb and wattles, dullness, lack of appetite, respiratory distress, diarrhoea, drop in egg production, and birds may die without any apparent signs of disease.
4. Wild birds
The main aim is to keep wild birds away from your flock. This is achieved through two different routes. First, keep free-range birds fenced from wetland areas and watercourses and if possible ensure they are wild bird proof. Second, keep units tidy by cleaning up feed spillages and broken egg shells as these food sources will attract wild birds.
5. Rodents/Pest Control
A strict rodent and pest control programme is an essential tool in decreasing the spread of the virus. Use commercially made bait and place around the outside of the building and the perimeter of the farm. Collect and dispose of rodent bodies and never fail to inspect bait regularly. Also, remove undergrowth from around the poultry buildings, maintain good housekeeping and keep buildings in good repair.
6. Water
The number one rule is to avoid untreated water. Treating the water by chlorination or another disinfection method will kill the virus. Also keep free-range birds contained, so that they are unable to drink from ponds or rivers where the water could be contaminated by dead birds or infected faeces.
7. DEFRA advice
Contact DEFRA or look on its website (www.defra.gov.uk) for information on worker protection, bio-security, shows, the poultry register, government policy, risk assessments, food safety and travel.
8. What to do if you suspect avian flu
Call the DEFRA Helpline 08459 33 55 77 Monday to Friday between 9am - 5pm. Or contact the Divisional Veterinary Manager at the local Animal Health Divisional Office immediately.