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OPINION: The recent detection of Avian Influenza (AI), a low pathogenicity strain H7N6, at a free-range poultry farm in Otago has the agri sector focused on biosecurity. While the situation is cause for concern, the emphasis is on not panicking but remaining vigilant. The key message? Biosecurity is everyone’s responsibility.
Avian Influenza is a highly contagious exotic disease, so it’s appropriate for us to respond comprehensively. However, there’s no need to panic. AI has been successfully managed and eradicated in other parts of the world.
Why biosecurity matters
New Zealand’s poultry industry, though smaller than the dairy sector, is an essential food source and a significant contributor to the economy. Exports were valued at approximately $190 million last year. However, with AI detected locally, export markets are temporarily on hold.
Historically, New Zealand has been free from major poultry diseases like AI, Newcastle Disease and Infectious Bursal Disease, making its poultry products highly sought after. Maintaining this disease-free status relies heavily on biosecurity practices.
AI is especially tricky to manage because of its 14-21 day incubation period. Birds often shed the virus before showing clinical signs, increasing the risk of widespread transmission. This means farmers and the public must be alert to any unusual changes in bird populations – whether domestic, commercial, tame, or wild – and notify the authorities.
What you can do
Taking biosecurity measures does not only apply to commercial poultry farms; it’s relevant for anyone with animals or birds, from dairy herds to pets and the chooks in the backyard.
Biosecurity is simply common sense. It’s not much different to the hygiene practices you’d adopt in a calf shed, equine environment, or a household with children. It’s the steps you take to ensure human and animal health and welfare.
Here are some practical steps to take:
Industry-wide cooperation
The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has taken steps to manage the outbreak. However, everyone in the community has a role to play. We, the people on the ground, must be MPI’s eyes and ears. Reporting unexplained illnesses or sudden deaths in bird populations is extremely important for early detection and control.
Resources and reporting
For detailed guidance on biosecurity and updates on the Avian Influenza outbreak visit the following websites:
If you observe sick or dead birds (the guideline is three or more), report them immediately to MPI’s hotline at 0800 80 99 66.
Natalie Chrystal is an animal nutritionist and president of the World Poultry Science Association NZ Branch.
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