Avian Influenza - Surveillance 2007/2008

  

Avian Influenza Surveillance 2007

Jersey and neighbouring areas of France and the UK remain free of this disease of birds.

In collaboration with the UK’s Department of Environment, there will be a survey of wild birds during the autumn and winter months, targeted at water birds, in other words gulls, swans, ducks, geese and waders.

During this survey period, the public are encouraged to report any dead water birds they come across, especially if there are several in one place. All such reports will be recorded and collated but not all birds will be collected as only a few samples are needed.

Other dead birds and birds killed on the road will not be recorded or collected so there is no need to report these.

Poultry keepers are advised to maintain good hygiene measures and to keep food and water under cover, where wild birds do not have access. Further information is available on the Environment Department website www.gov.je/PlanningEnvironment/Environment or by telephoning 441600 for a leaflet.

States Veterinary Officer Linda Lowseck said “Jersey’s import controls on live birds and bird products remain in force and this measure, together with good practice by flock owners decreases the likelihood of any introduction or spread of the disease. Assisting the UK with their survey will enable us to have greater confidence about the absence of the disease in Jersey”.

Anyone wishing to report dead water birds should phone 441600.

Page Last Updated: 12/12/2007