UK's government warns poultry farmers over Newcastle Disease threat
The UK Government has sent out a message to all poultry farmers following outbreaks of the disease in smallholder flocks and commercial poultry sites in Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg.
Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) experts have said that the risk of the disease in UK flocks has risen from ‘low’ to ‘medium’.
Newcastle Disease is caused by a virulent strain of paramyxovirus and can be spread through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected birds. It can cause severe losses in certain poultry species, including:
- commercial and specialist breeds
- pet chickens
- game birds
- other captive birds, including racing pigeons.
The government has given a serie of measures needed to be taken by poultry keepers in order to minimise the risk to their birds:
- Ensuring, where appropriate, their birds have been vaccinated against the disease.
- Implementing strict biosecurity measures on their premises, including using disinfectant foot baths and reducing visitors to the birds.
- Thoroughly cleaning vehicles, equipment, clothing, boots that have been in contact with birds.
- Feeding and watering should be under cover and kept away from wild birds.
- Washing their hands with soap and water after handling their own birds.
Poultry keepers who suspect that their birds may be infected with Newcastle Disease should contact their private vet and the APHA immediately.
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