Farmers to redouble biosecurity measures to protect against avian influenza UK - The recent Avian Influenza scares in Romania and Turkey are a reminder to all poultry farmers in the UK they must remain vigilant against any sign of notifiable diseases, the NFU said today. Avian Influenza, which primarily affects birds not humans, would have potentially disastrous consequences for the British poultry industry.

Charles Bourns, NFU Poultry Board Chairman, said, “Farmers should redouble their biosecurity measures to ensure poultry enclosures, houses and surrounding areas are kept as clean as possible in order not to attract wild birds. Clothes, vehicles and boots should be cleaned and disinfected as appropriate.

I want to assure the British public that farmers are taking, and are prepared to take, all necessary steps to protect their flocks from this disease. UK poultry products remain disease-free and safe for consumers. The World Health Organisation has advised there is no health risk from well-cooked poultry meat or from eggs.

The NFU is working closely with Defra, while surveillance of Avian Influenza has been stepped up across Europe. This should act as an early warning system for any potential outbreak.”