Confirmed cases of highly pathogenic Avian Influenza (AI) H5N1 in Buckley, Flintshire and Tattenhall, Cheshire in recent days have heightened Welsh poultry farmers’ concerns as the industry tries to defend itself against the most severe outbreak of AI the UK has seen.
Severity and spread of AI
On Tuesday 8 November the Minister for Rural Affairs, Lesley Griffiths MS, issued a statement on the severity and spread of AI. In the statement, the Minister also confirmed that Wales would not yet be introducing a mandatory housing order like the one now in place in England. She stated the situation remains under daily review.
Earlier this week, NFU Cymru members held a meeting with the Interim Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales to discuss their growing concerns over the latest outbreak of AI. Topics discussed during the meeting included an update on the spread of AI, the epidemiology of the disease, biosecurity, the current measures that poultry keepers need to adhere to under the All-Wales Avian Influenza Protection Zone, as well as the Welsh Government’s current position on housing measures.
Keeping birds safe
During the meeting, Welsh Government reminded all keepers that they must keep their birds safe by rigorously applying the biosecurity measures in the All-Wales Avian Influenza Prevention Zone. Keepers of birds must also remain vigilant for signs of the disease.
NFU Cymru Poultry Chairman Richard Williams said: “Everyone connected with the poultry industry is extremely concerned at the current AI picture and the priority for everyone at this time is protecting our flocks from this disease.
Vital to keep ahead of the disease
“I would like to thank the Interim Chief Veterinary Officer Gavin Watkins and his team for providing NFU Cymru members with a timely update on the spread of AI earlier this week.
“While NFU Cymru recognises that the disease picture in Wales is different to that currently seen in England – where housing orders are already in place – Welsh poultry keepers present at the meeting felt that it was vital the industry in Wales kept ahead of the disease.
Housing measures
To that end – and with the disease creeping closer everyday - there was a general feeling among those in attendance that, alongside the stringent biosecurity measures already introduced in Wales as part of the All-Wales Avian Influenza Protection Zone measures, Welsh Government should also introduce housing measures as an additional protective shield for birds in Wales.
“NFU Cymru urges Welsh Government to keep a very close eye on the continued spread of AI and to take fast action if and when it is required to prevent further cases. NFU Cymru will remain in close dialogue with Welsh Government and is also in constant contact with NFU colleagues over the border in England, along with Defra and the APHA, to ensure we remain on top of this issue and keep a watch on the disease’s spread and impact. Just as importantly, the union continues to offer support to those member businesses affected by this latest wave of AI.
Enhanced biosecurity
“I make no apologies for repeating the important message that all poultry members must continue to practise enhanced biosecurity at all times and to be vigilant for any signs of disease in their flock. I would also ask members of the public who keep smaller flocks of birds such as chickens, geese and ducks to also follow Welsh Government’s biosecurity advice. All bird keepers – whether they be larger commercial businesses or those with small ‘backyard’ flocks - have an important part to play in reducing the risk of AI.”
For the very latest on AI and its impact on Welsh poultry businesses, including a dedicated AI case finder, please visit the NFU Cymru website.
