Thursday, January 13, 2011

UK - H1N1 found in turkeys

Date: Wed 12 Jan 2011
Source: DEFRA (UK Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs) News
[edited]


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A routine disease investigation has ruled out avian notifiable disease but
detected H1N1 influenza in turkeys on a farm in Cheshire.

The strain is closely similar to the human pandemic H1N1 strain currently
circulating.

The Health Protection Agency has undertaken a thorough public health risk
assessment and can confirm there is no risk to public health.

This finding has resulted from a routine notifiable avian disease
investigation relating to a small number of turkeys showing mild signs of
disease. During the investigation there was clinical improvement in these
birds.

Results of laboratory tests show that statutory notifiable avian disease --
where the government would need to take animal health action -- can be
ruled out. Restrictions have been lifted on the farm.

There is no food safety risk. Pandemic H1N1, in common with avian
influenza, has not been shown to be transmissible to people through eating
properly handled and cooked poultry meat, products, and eggs.

Bird keepers should continue to maintain appropriate biosecurity measures
and be vigilant for signs of notifiable avian disease and report any
suspicion promptly to the Animal Health agency.

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