Scotland’s poultry keepers are well prepared to deal with the threat of highly pathogenic Avian Influenza (AI) says NFU Scotland.
Reacting to the introduction by the Scottish Government of a 30-day AI Prevention Zone in Scotland (alongside the same in England and Wales), NFU Scotland’s animal health and welfare policy manager, Penny Johnston, said “Scottish poultry keepers are up to speed on the current threat posed by the presence of HPAI on mainland Europe.
“The recent well-attended (industry-led) roadshows have brought everyone up to date on the biosecurity measures and contingency plans they should be employing to keep their flocks as safe as possible.
“Looking at the spread of HPAI across Europe, it is clear that there is a high risk of infection in wild migratory fowl, posing a risk of cross infection into our commercial birds. The decision taken by the Scottish Government is sensible, given the risk, and producers will play their part.
“NFU Scotland will continue to monitor the situation and update producers of any changes to the risk status and advice but in the meantime, we urge all poultry keepers to comply with the restriction notice, tighten biosecurity and be aware of the potentially increased risks from wild birds.”
