The incidence of an outbreak of Avian Flu H5N8 in a small number of poultry flocks in Antrim has led to an increase in the requests we receive for products that maximise biosecurity on farms and poultry farms.

GS Agri understands the importance of Bio-Security, and with that in mind, we have several systems available to keep your farm safe.

  • Our fully or semi-automated vehicle disinfectant spray system is ideal for vehicles entering your farm. Dependent on the system it can reach over and above HGV https://www.gs-agrisystems.com/biosecurity/
  • Dutrion (chlorine dioxide) can be applied via a small handheld fogging machine onto workers clothes, hands, onto any surfaces and housing equipment to kill bacteria and viruses https://www.gs-agrisystems.com/dutrion/

 

January 2021 Update

Following the confirmation of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N8 in poultry flocks in Clough and Lisburn and the introduction of Protection Zones and Surveillance Zones around both holdings, the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs has now extended the scope of the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ).

These further measures are in place until this declaration is withdrawn or amended by further declarations.

Source: https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/avian-influenza-ai

Dated 19th January 2021

 

DAERA Avian Flu BioSecurity Assessment

DAERA has published a very helpful self-assessment tool, which offers a checklist against which to gauge your biosecurity level. This tool enables any flock keepers to critically review their biosecurity arrangements

https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/publications/daera-ai-biosecurity-self-assessment

Changes in birds’ health, feed, or water intakes should be closely monitored as they could provide early signs of disease. Things to look out for include, but are not limited to:

  • Drops in egg production of 5% or more over a three or more day period
  • Changes in colour and/or consistency of your birds’ faeces
  • Significant reductions in bird feather cover
  • Decrease in water or feed intakes

DAERA’s advice is that If you see any of the above signs, it is recommended that you consult your private veterinary surgeon immediately.

What arrangements are in place to ensure that wild birds cannot access stored bedding, feed, and water intended for your birds? What steps have you taken to reduce the movements of people, vehicles, or equipment in areas where birds are kept? The questionnaire also flags the need for disinfectant points and cleaning and disinfecting routines.