Unsung heroes under the soil
Much of the scientific work being carried out at the Massey University led regenerative agriculture project, Whenua Haumanu, is below the ground.
Stuart Anderson, Biosecurity New Zealand deputy director-general, says tests from the Mainland Poultry managed farm identified a high pathogenic H7N6 subtype of avian influenza.
“While it is not the H5N1 type circulating among wildlife around the world that has caused concern, we are taking the find seriously,” Anderson says.
He says testing shows it is unrelated to the H7 strain identified in Australia earlier this year.
Anderson adds that Biosecurity New Zealand believes that this specific case may have happened as part of a spillover event, where laying hens foraging outside of the shed were exposed to a low pathogenic virus from wild waterfowl.
“Low pathogenic viruses are present in wild birds here, especially waterfowl like ducks, geese, and swans and the virus can mutate on interaction with chickens,” he says.
“It is important to note that the strain found on this farm is not a wildlife adapted strain like H5N1, so we believe it is unlikely to be transmitted to mammals.”
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Prior to the test result, there had been no reports of other ill or dead birds on other poultry farms and there are no human food safety concerns.
It is safe to consume thoroughly cooked egg and poultry products.
Anderson says quick action was taken in co-operation with Mainland Poultry and a restricted place notice has been issued.
“Test results late last night confirmed the strain, but we already had restrictions in place and expert biosecurity staff on site, with more arriving today. Mainland Poultry took the right steps by reporting ill birds in one shed on the property and locking that building down as testing continued,” he says.
“We will move quickly, with Mainland Poultry, to depopulate birds on the remote property and we’ve placed a 10-kilometre buffer zone around it alongside the restrictions preventing movement of animals, equipment, and feed.
“We aim to stamp this out like we did with infectious bursal viral disease that affected chickens in 2019,” Anderson says.
“Importantly, the farm has strong biosecurity standards and Mainland is helping with ongoing investigation and tracing of animal movements.
“We have put a lot of effort in with the poultry and egg sector, the Department of Conservation, and Ministry of Health to prepare for H5N1 and that puts us in a good position to deal with the less virulent H7N6 strain found on this farm.
“If anyone sees 3 or more sick or dead wild birds in a group, report it immediately to the exotic pest and disease hotline on 0800 80 99 66 so we can investigate the cause.”
John McKay, chief executive of Mainland Poultry, which manages the free-range farm, says it is committed to taking swift action.
“We have been preparing for an event like this for some time knowing that low pathogenic avian influenza is already present in New Zealand wild birds,” McKay says.
“Fortunately, this is not the H5N1 type that has caused concern for wildlife in other parts of the world. International experience with avian influenza has shown us this particular strain (H7N6) can be eradicated quickly and successfully. “
““We will be working closely with MPI to depopulate the affected shed, ensure rigorous testing of all other birds on the farm and manage the situation effectively. I’m confident with swift action and collaboration we can eradicate this,” he concludes.
