With concerns over Avian Flu the Guernsey States Vet issued this statement -
As many of you are aware there have been many outbreaks of avian influenza (bird flu) across Europe reported last weekend (3rd/4th Dec). No outbreaks have been reported in the U.K. yet. The outbreaks have occurred as a consequence of wild birds flying south to avoid cold weather in the north. The U.K.'s Chief Vet has advised poultry keepers to take measures to avoid their flocks coming into contact with wild birds and therefore avoiding cross infection. If birds could be housed without compromising their welfare then they should be. In some situations this is not practical but keepers should take measures to avoid wild birds sharing feeding and watering stations of domestic birds. Domestic birds kept in pens should have their pens covered to prevent wild bird droppings from entering pens. Ducks and geese should be housed at night where possible. Bird gatherings such as shows carry a risk of cross infection so the organisers and attendees of shows such as their Guernsey Fanciers Poultry Show on the 10th December will need to consider how to control this risk. Similarly the organisers of the National Federation of Poultry Clubs Championship Show on the 17th and 18th December will need to consider the risks of going ahead. Turkey farmers will particularly be nervous as this is their busiest time of the year and their investment has a narrow window in which to get to market. There is a lot of information on the UK Government website regarding symptoms in domestic and wild birds. If keepers are concerned about their livestock they should contact their own private vets.
Steve Byrne GSPCA Manager said "With the potential risk of avian flu and following the announcement of Defra and the Guernsey States Vet we've increased bio-security here at the GSPCA as a precautionary measure as we care for 100's of birds."
"Avian or Bird flu is spread through direct contact with infected birds dead or alive, an infected bird's droppings, or secretions from their eyes or respiratory tract, close and prolonged contact with an infected bird is generally required for the infection to spread to humans."
"Although it is thought that the risk is low here in Guernsey it is important that we all do our bit to help ensure our birds and human life is safe here in Guernsey."
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