December 5, 2024

 

Second farm in Otago, New Zealand under avian influenza restrictions

Biosecurity New Zealand has issued a restricted place notice for a second farm in Otago following the detection of avian influenza in the region earlier this week.

 

The notice affects a small free-range poultry farm near Dunedin, with approximately 6,000 birds. According to Stuart Anderson, Biosecurity New Zealand's deputy director-general, this measure is precautionary. "As is normal in biosecurity responses, we always investigate where illness is identified," Anderson stated.

 

Testing is underway at the second property, where a small number of bird deaths have been reported. Authorities are also investigating whether there is any link between this farm and Mainland Poultry's egg farm, where avian influenza was first identified.

 

At Mainland Poultry, the culling of chickens in two sheds has commenced. The process, expected to take two to three days, is being carried out by Mainland Poultry with support from Biosecurity New Zealand. The culling uses CO2 containerised gas, a standard industry method for euthanising chickens.

 

The carcasses and litter from the affected sheds will be transported to a secure landfill in Southland. Anderson noted that the landfill is equipped to handle this type of waste and has specific measures to prevent environmental contamination. "The disposal will be in a deep pit, in an area well away from public access, and the landfill will remain closed during the process," he explained.

 

Biosecurity New Zealand is conducting additional testing at Mainland Poultry's farm, other properties of interest, and the smaller farm near Dunedin. Thus far, there have been no concerns reported about ill or dead birds at other poultry farms. Contract tracing has revealed limited movements between Mainland Poultry's affected farm and other farms in the region.

 

The risk to human health remains low, with no concerns for food safety or wildlife. Anderson reiterated that avian influenza viruses are destroyed by cooking. "Thoroughly cooked egg and poultry products remain safe to eat," he said. He also advised against consuming raw eggs, particularly for individuals with compromised immune systems, due to the risk of harmful pathogens like salmonella.

 

A 10 km buffer zone around Mainland Poultry's farm has been established as an enhanced surveillance zone. Biosecurity New Zealand is increasing its presence in Otago and has set up a regional control centre to manage the situation.

 

More than 100 staff from the Ministry for Primary Industries, including biosecurity, veterinary, agricultural, and food safety teams, are involved in the response, with numbers expected to grow as needed. Anderson emphasised that testing and monitoring efforts will continue rigorously in the coming days and weeks.

 

-      Rural News