By Aimee Mahony, chief poultry advisor, NFU
Some experts in ornithology predicted that we would see a bad winter for avian influenza (AI) in the UK during 2021/22. However I’m not sure anybody thought that we would have over 130 outbreaks in poultry and captive birds in the UK and more than 1,551 positive findings in wild birds in Britain, or that outbreaks would still be occurring in the middle of August.
On August 16 the remaining Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIVZ) measures were lifted across Britain. This decision was taken by the chief veterinary officer following the reduction in risk level to low for poultry. Something that has stuck in my mind from recent meetings is that low risk does not mean no risk. In fact, in the case of risk levels associated with AI, low risk means ‘rare but does occur’.
Therefore it is vital that all bird keepers play their part and remain vigilant to any signs of disease while practising good biosecurity measures. Extensive lessons-learnt projects have been undertaken, and we must now look at reviewing contingency plans ahead of the autumn.
It is thought that the recent dry weather may have encouraged the movement of some wild bird species as they search for water and feeding grounds. Of particular concern is gulls, as they can move inland to scavenge and poultry farms can look inviting. It is imperative that producers maintain high standards of biosecurity and that all staff members are trained in the relevant protocols and ensure that any visitors follow all biosecurity instructions.
While we are unsure about the winter ahead, if the global picture is anything to go by, then we are most certainly not out of the woods and the poultry sector needs to ensure it is protected. AI is not the only challenge producers currently face and as the pressure mounts for some, please reach out and speak to those you know who you haven’t heard from for a while. It might just be the call that somebody needs.