THE SCOTTISH Government has declared that the whole of Scotland is now under an avian flu prevention zone.
From today, Saturday, the movement of poultry, carcasses, eggs, used poultry litter and manure is prohibited to prevent avian flu, which rarely infects humans, from spreading.
At the time of writing no end date has been listed for the prevention zone.
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, 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 read: “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 infected poultry to swell, become 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.
