DEPARTMENT FOR
ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS News Release (News Release ref :
190/08) issued by The Government News Network on 17 June 2008
Defra has today
published an epidemiology report into the Avian Influenza outbreak
confirmed in Oxfordshire on 4 June.
The report concludes that, at the time of writing (11 June), the
outbreak is confined to a single premises, and there is no
evidence of infection in the Protection Zone or of spread to any
other premises. However, investigations continue.
The report suggests that it is possible that the Highly
Pathogenic H7N7 Avian influenza derived from a Low Pathogenic
strain already present on the farm, analysis and investigations
are ongoing, and a number of source hypotheses are being considered.
Chief Veterinary Officer, Nigel Gibbens, said
"The UK is at a constant but low level of risk of the
introduction of Avian Influenza, and the report highlights the
need for flock owners and poultry vets to remain vigilant for
signs of disease, including the possibility of low pathogenic
Avian Influenza. I would encourage all keepers to maintain good
quality records and practise high standards of biosecurity."
The Protection and Surveillance Zones remain in place. Further
surveillance, testing and epidemiological work on this outbreak
are ongoing.
Notes to Editors
1. The report can be viewed at http://www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/diseases/notifiable/disease/ai/latest-situation/index.htm
2. An indicative timeline to lifting Avian Influenza
restrictions in Oxfordshire has been published to help poultry and
egg producers and others whose business is affected by disease
control restrictions. It can be found at: http://www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/diseases/notifiable/disease/ai/latest-situation/index.htm
3. Advice and information on H7N7 avian influence is available
via the Defra Helpline on 08459 33 55 77. Poultry keepers can also
call the Animal Health recorded information line for the latest
updates, on 0844 884 4600.
4. Avian Influenza is a disease of birds and whilst it can pass
very rarely and with difficulty to humans, this usually requires
extremely close contact with infected birds, particularly faeces.
As a precautionary measure those who might have been exposed would
be offered the appropriate treatment and protection in line with
established protocols. Advice from the Food Standards Agency
remains that properly cooked poultry and poultry products,
including eggs, are safe to eat.
Public enquiries 08459 335577;
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