Compulsory testing of free range flocks for low pathogenic strains of avian influenza would lead to slaughter if the disease is detected, says Defra.
The survey has been ordered by the EU in an effort to provide an early warning system and help prevent an outbreak of a virulent strain of the disease.
The tests—which are now being carried out—will identify the H5 and H7 sub-types that can be introduced to poultry from wild birds and have been known to mutate into high pathogenic AI. A pilot survey carried out last year in the UK found no evidence of the disease when birds were tested at slaughterhouses, but the Commission is now insisting on a more targeted survey.
The tests are being conducted on all species of poultry, including ducks, geese and turkeys. But only free range flocks from the commercial egg laying sector will be tested because of a greater likelihood of being exposed to the virus through contact with wild birds. Farms will be selected at random and blood samples will be collected from at least ten birds.
The aim is to sample the birds as near as possible to their slaughter date, although there is no guarantee of this and the BEIC’s request to restrict sampling to single-age sites, thereby minimising any disruption should the disease be found, has been rejected by Defra.
While a negative result will require no further action, if the tests prove inconclusive a more detailed investigation will take place, says Defra. And evidence that birds are infected with the H5 or H7 sub-type will lead to the farm being put under restriction along with any other poultry premises within 10km.
Defra will then make arrangements for the slaughter of the infected poultry “as a precautionary measure” and compensation paid for the birds at market value but with no payout for any consequential loss.
BEIC’s chief executive Mark Williams said that the industry was still pressing for a change to the compensation rules.
“We continue to lobby Defra on this issue for without any form of compensation to cover consequential loss, producers could be forced out of business,” said Mr Williams.
But while the stakes may be high, at least the odds are long. Only forty three flocks are being tested in England, with a further seventeen across Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
