The chief veterinary officer (CVO) for the Isle of Man, Amy Beckett, confirmed a case of avian influenza (bird flu) on the island yesterday (Wednesday, December 28).

The disease was confirmed in poultry in the Patrick area of the island. Disease control measures were introduced after confirmation of the case.

A Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) 3km Protection Zone and 10km Surveillance Zone were declared around the infected premises.

The declaration of a Protection Zone and Surveillance Zone imposes legal obligations on keepers in these zones, Beckett said.

The outbreak comes after the disease was detected in geese in October. It was reported that dead geese were found in Ayre on the Isle of Man and, following tests, bird flu was confirmed as the cause.

Biosecurity

The Isle of Man government has called for all birdkeepers to practice good biosecurity to prevent more outbreaks of the disease.

Essential biosecurity and housing requirements for keepers of ducks, geese and poultry on the island include:

Practices in relation to the cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, hard surfaces and footwear are also strongly encouraged.