Welsh Government | Ban on bird gatherings lifted

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Ban on bird gatherings lifted

The ban on all bird gatherings in Wales which was put in place as a result of the outbreak of Avian Influenza in Suffolk has been lifted today [Friday, 23 November].

Friday 23 November 2007

The decision to lift the ban is based scientific and veterinary advice from the UK expert group on Avian Influenza. Events such as falconry displays, fairs, markets, shows and exhibitions can now take place.

Whilst the ban has been lifted we would urge bird keepers to continue to be vigilant and maintain high levels of biosecurity.

As a precautionary measure, the ban remains in place within the Restricted, Surveillance and Protection zones in Suffolk and Norfolk. Birds from those zones will not be able to be taken to gatherings in the rest of Great Britain.

Notes

If bird keepers have any concerns about their flock they should contact their vet or the local Animal Health Office:

Carmarthen: 01267 245500
Cardiff: 029 20 768500
Caernarfon: 01286 674144

The DEFRA helpline number is: 08459 335577

Avian Influenza is a disease of birds and whilst it can pass very rarely and with difficulty to humans, this requires extremely close contact with infected birds, particularly faeces.
Advice from the Food Standards Agency remains that properly cooked poultry and poultry products, including eggs, are safe to eat.

November 23, 2007