NSW animal disease experts are being deployed to Victoria to assist in managing a case of Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza at a commercial duck farm north-west of Melbourne. 

“Our officers have extensive experience in exotic disease emergencies and will work closely with the Victorian authorities out of a response centre in Melbourne’s north-west,” NSW Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Ian Roth, said. 

“Adrian Knobel of Wagga Wagga and Michael Davy from Taree were appointed to the project team based on their strong animal health skills and previous experience, including with outbreaks of Equine Influenza and Hendra in horses.   

“Adrian and Michael will be involved in a range of activities, including the containment of the disease. 

“The affected farms in Victoria have been placed under strict quarantine and no birds, eggs, meat or associated equipment can be taken off the property. 

“The strain detected in Victoria is different to the highly pathogenic H5N1 strain. 

“The previous six outbreaks of Avian Influenza in Australia have all been successfully contained and eradicated. 

“The deployment of resources to Victoria builds on additional measures being put in place to keep NSW free of the virus. 

“Working with the Victorian authorities we’ve completed an extensive tracing exercise to rule out any risks to NSW’s poultry industry.” 

Dr Roth said the case in Victoria is a timely reminder for NSW poultry producers to review their biosecurity measures. 

“Simple biosecurity measures can help prevent this disease as well as other disease outbreaks,” Dr Roth said. 

“Where possible, producers should minimise the contact between their domestic birds and wild birds and other animals.” 

Biosecurity tips for NSW poultry producers 

• Restrict contact between poultry and wild birds 
• Prevent contamination of food and water by faeces or other animal waste 
• Keep equipment and poultry yards or aviaries clean 
• Practise good hygiene if attending bird shows 
• Limit visitors to your birds 
• Quarantining new birds

Media contact: Steve Green 6391 3686 or 0427 192 658