THE NATIONAL Farmers Union has urged all poultry keepers to follow Government guidance after a Scotland-wide prevention zone was established to curb the spread of bird flu.
From today, Saturday, January 25, the movement of poultry, carcasses, eggs, used litter and manure is prohibited to prevent avian flu, which rarely infects humans, from spreading.
There is no end date listed for the prevention zone.
READ MORE: Scotland in bird flu lockdown as prevention zone established
Speaking exclusively to The National, a NFU spokesperson said that the containment zone “is a preventative measure”.
They added: “Members will not be unfamiliar with such a requirement and is necessary precaution to prevent devasting losses.
“The introduction of the poultry register means Scottish Government can contact poultry keepers immediately of any such restrictions and we welcome it.”
They finished the statement by urging “all keepers to follow guidance and continue to adhere to bio security measures.”
All keepers of poultry and live birds are being asked by The Scottish Government to ensure they take all necessary measures to stop the virus from spreading.
Under the restrictions the movement of people, vehicles or equipment to and from any part of where poultry or other captive birds are kept is reduced to medical checks, collection of eggs, movement birds for restocking or slaughter, feeding and official inspections.
A statement from The Scottish Government reads, “Ministers have carried out a risk assessment and consider an avian influenza prevention zone necessary to reduce the risk of the transmission of avian influenza to poultry or other captive birds in Scotland from wild birds or from any other source.”
Breach of the prevention zone rules can lead to fines and up to six months in prison.
Avian flu causes poultry to swell, be lethargic, and in many cases die. When spread to humans, it causes fatigue, aches, and a fever. In extreme cases it can cause breathing difficulties, chest pains, and respiratory issues.
Public Health Scotland advises that the risk to public health from the virus is very low and Food Standards Scotland advises that avian influenzas pose a very low food safety risk for consumers. Properly cooked poultry and poultry products, including eggs, are safe to eat.
