Avian flu
Outbreaks in Europe of avian flu (influenza) will have increased the risk of this disease occurring in poultry, however the risk of the disease in Jersey is low.Viral delivery paths for diseases are known as vectors.
Wild birds
A possible vector of avian influenza is migrating wild birds. These birds mingle with domestic poultry during their travels and can spread the disease by depositing bodily fluids or through physical contact.
The wild birds that usually migrate to our shores travel here from northern and central Europe.
Although the risk of infection is low, there is a possibility that a freak weather pattern could blow wild birds from infected countries off course so that they end up in our region. Outbreaks of avian influenza could also occur in countries on the migratory routes used by birds heading for Jersey.
Alternative vectors
Alternatively, indirect vectors such as people, equipment and vehicles may introduce infective material to flocks in the Island.
People travelling to Jersey from infected countries where they have had contact with birds should take extra care, however this method of infection is much more likely once the disease has become established in the locality.
A poster will be displayed at the airport and harbour when the risk level is raised.
Download Avian Flu warning poster
How the disease may be spread
It is important that all those working in the countryside, especially those who keep poultry, remain vigilant and report any unusual symptoms observed in the domestic or wild bird populations.
Avian influenza is spread when an infected bird sheds the flu virus in its faeces, saliva or mucus discharges. Other birds become infected by eating or inhaling the virus.
Clinical signs
Clinical signs of the disease in poultry may simply be seen as a sudden high mortality, possibly preceded by severe depression or fever in the flock. Infected birds may show signs of conjunctivitis, runny eyes, sinusitis and swollen dark blue heads.
Milder forms of the disease may be associated with non-specific respiratory problems, severe and sudden drop in egg production with an increase in soft shelled or shell-less eggs in laying birds.
Biosecurity
An effective farm biosecurity policy is the first defence in preventing infection.
This should involve regularly refilled foot dips charged with an approved disinfectant that you can source from local suppliers.
Unauthorised visitors to the flock should be kept to a minimum with staff and vehicle movements also minimised.
Protective clothing should be provided and visitors should wash their hands with an effective preparation prior to visiting the birds.
An effective vermin control program should be in place and poultry houses should be in a good state of repair to exclude entry of vermin and wild birds.
To reduce the contact of domestic poultry with wild birds their foodstuffs should be feed inside their housing.
In the event of the current low risk situation developing into a high risk disease threat it is advised that poultry keepers should give some thought to how they could permanently house their birds.
Full details of the recommended biosecurity measures that should be put in place will be circulated to known poultry keepers and copies are available from the department.
Approved list of disinfectants on DEFRA website
Diagnosis
Prompt diagnosis of avian influenza will obviously be vital for the well being of the human and poultry populations of the Island.
Poultry keepers must report any suspicious symptoms in their flocks immediately to their veterinary surgeon who will take the appropriate action.
If you suspect avian influenza contact the Environment Department.
Department surveillance
The Environment Department is monitoring any unusual mortality in wild birds but would value the assistance of all those working in the countryside with this surveillance.
It is advised that the general public should not pick up dead birds but leave them in-situ and report the location to the department.
Protect your birds against avian flu