Individuals also have a role to play in containing avian flu! Communication operation this week from the veterinary services of the Haute-Vienne prefecture in the canton of Saint-Yrieix-la-Perche, where an outbreak was confirmed two weeks ago, in a farm in Chalard.
No new cases since 45 municipalities are to date affected by sanitary measures, and the prefecture wants to raise awareness beyond professionals, the owners of backyards. Those who have just two or three hens in their garden, because the epizootic can also be transmitted like that.
In France, between 30 and 40 outbreaks occurred in chicken coops insists Marie-Pierre Muller. The departmental director of employment, work, solidarity and protection of populations in Haute-Vienne recalls three essential things to know.
The aim is therefore to protect feeders and drinkers wildlife, potentially carriers of H5N1. A virus with multiple symptoms explains Guillaume Richignac, veterinary services technician: “You can see your birds ruffled feathers, lower feed and water consumption and much less laying eggs.”
An undetected sick animal will have time to contaminate many others – Marie-Pierre Muller, DDCSPP of Haute-Vienne
In case of doubt or mortality, it is better to call a veterinarian. If the virus arrives on another site of the department, “it must be detected as quickly as possible, since due to its contagiousness an undetected sick animal will have time to contaminate many others. Individuals can contribute to this reactivity”adds Marie-Pierre Muller.
– Valerie Mosnier
Ponds under close surveillance
In addition to farmyards, pond owners, walkers and hunters are also invited to report dead birds to the French Office for Biodiversity. Because bodies of water are privileged habitats for wildlifesuch as migratory birds but also ducks, one of the species most susceptible to avian flu.
– Valerie Mosnier
In case of discovery, do not touch the animal to avoid spreading the disease and wait for the intervention of a professional. Birds found dead must be reported to the OFB at 05.55.75.54.38 or to the federation of hunters at 05.55.01.39.00
– Valerie Mosnier