The results from Veterinary Laboratories Agency in Weybridge follow investigation of suspect disease at the holding in Fenton Barns, Drem.

Newcastle Disease is a disease of poultry. It is not Avian Influenza and has no significant implications for public health.

In response to this confirmation the Scottish Executive, Defra and the State Veterinary Service are undertaking thorough epidemiological assessments to determine the source of the disease and the level of risk it may pose to other poultry.

Restrictions have been put in place and poultry on the premises will be culled in line with EU requirements. A 3km protection zone and a 10km surveillance zone have been established.

Within the 3km protection zone housing of poultry is required, and appropriate means of disinfection must be put in place at the entrances and exits to poultry premises.

Throughout both areas the movements of poultry, captive birds, racing pigeons and hatching eggs are restricted and may only be moved under licence. Bird shows and other gatherings are banned.

Keepers of poultry in the areas are being contacted with information on disease and how to maximise biosecurity protection for their flock.

Background

Newcastle Disease is a notifiable disease of birds and is characterised by:

• Sneezing, gasping for air, nasal discharge, coughing
• Greenish, watery diarrhoea
• Depression, muscular tremors, drooping wings, twisting of head and neck, circling, complete paralysis
• Swelling of the tissues around the eyes and in the neck
• Sudden death
• Increased death loss in a flock

In laying birds there can be partial to complete drop in egg production; and production of thin-shelled eggs.

Anyone suspecting disease should report this immediately to the State Veterinary Service.

Restrictions will be in place for a minimum of 21 days in the Protection Zone (and 30 days in the Surveillance Zone) after preliminary cleansing and disinfection of the infected premises have been carried out.

The Scottish Executive Contingency Plan for Newcastle Disease can be found at
http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2006/09/19105107/0.

A legal Declaration has been made under the Diseases of Poultry (Scotland) Order 2003. This and a map showing the areas under restrictions can be found at:
http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Agriculture/animal-welfare/Diseases/SpecificDisease/newcastledisease/declaration13October2006.

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