In the heart of Canberra, chicken owners are finally finding a sense of relief. The recent avian influenza H7N8 outbreak had caused widespread concern, but a week has passed without any new cases. This brings hope to many, even as egg sales restrictions remain in place for the time being.
Biosecurity Measures
The ACT government is taking strong measures to control the bird flu outbreak in the north. The quarantine includes Pace Farms in Macgregor and a backyard in Belconnen. Around 170,000 birds were euthanized. A team from the ACT Environment Planning and Sustainability directorate is watching the situation closely.
Bird owners should follow these biosecurity tips to stop the spread:
- Practice good hygiene.
- Clean clothes after handling birds.
- Wash and disinfect equipment and vehicles.
- Keep backyard birds away from wild birds.
- Watch birds for signs of illness.
Ongoing Monitoring
Dr. Kyeelee Driver, Acting Chief Veterinary Officer, thanked the community for reporting sick birds. Monitoring and testing will continue to quickly find any new cases. Bird owners should keep their birds at home and avoid contact with wild birds.
Watching Wild Birds
Wild ducks, which can carry the virus without showing symptoms, are being monitored. Poultry breeders have canceled major shows and are keeping their birds safe.
Government Guidelines
Bird owners in quarantine areas should register their birds online to help with response efforts. The government says bird flu does not affect food safety, and properly cooked poultry products are safe to eat.
Impact on Retail
Egg supply is still low. Woolworths is working with suppliers to improve availability and is keeping a two-pack limit on eggs in NSW, Victoria, and ACT due to supply chain issues.
As the community continues to navigate the challenges posed by the bird flu outbreak, vigilance and adherence to biosecurity measures remain crucial. The ACT government and local bird owners are working together to ensure the health and safety of both domestic and wild bird populations. With ongoing efforts and community cooperation, there is optimism for a swift resolution and a return to normalcy in the near future.
