Risk Of Asian Bird Influenza On NZ Flocks Minimal

Poultry Industry Association of New Zealand (Inc)

27/01/04
Media Release

Risk Of Asian Bird Influenza Impacting On New Zealand Poultry Flocks Minimal

The New Zealand poultry industry says it is highly unlikely New Zealand’s domestic poultry flocks would be affected by the avian influenza currently throughout Asia, Chairman of the Poultry Industry Association of New Zealand (PIANZ) Mike Rozen said today.

“New Zealand’s poultry industry has some of the most stringent biosecurity systems in the world and does not import any live poultry or poultry products. The avian influenza outbreak reinforces the importance of the domestic flock remaining disease free and the continued ban on imports will assist in maintaining this health status.

“However, PIANZ has alerted all its members to be extra vigilant at this time. It has also cautioned all members who travel in Asia to ensure they declare any farm visits or contact with animals on re-entry to New Zealand. Industry members have been advised to apply the same rules to visitors to any New Zealand farms.

There is a high probability that the disease could be spread outside Asia by migratory birds but this risk is considered minimal as the migratory season has passed.

“PIANZ is in regular contact with the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry to ensure the industry has the most up to date information on the status of the disease.” Mr Rozen said.

For further information on the status of the Avian influenza please go to the Ministry of Health website at www.moh.govt.nz

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