Strictest Biosecurity Controls Needed in Fight Against Avian Flu
Reacting to the confirmation of a second case of avian flu on a turkey farm in Meath, IFA Poultry Chair Nigel Sweetnam said there has to be a laser-like focus on biosecurity across the country.
“Flock owners must work to guarantee the tightest controls are in place. The housing order takes effect from next Monday, but producers should house their birds now and take the necessary steps to protect their birds.”
“This latest case comes after confirmation of avian flu on a farm in Carlow yesterday. It’s a very concerning development and devastating for the farm,” he said.
Nigel Sweetnam said producers should go through their biosecurity protocols in detail and ensure there are no gaps anywhere. Housing the birds is an additional protection, but effective biosecurity protocols that minimise the risk are our number one defence.
“The risk is so high that only controls that are strictly implemented and managed robustly will work in the fight to limit the spread of avian flu,” he concluded.
