A third Victorian poultry farm in central Victoria has declared an outbreak of avian influenza, with the source currently under investigation. The farm, located in Lethbridge, reported the same viral strain of bird flu that was found at an egg farm in Meredith just 10 days prior. These two farms are in close proximity, only about a 10-minute drive apart in the Golden Plains Shire.
This recent outbreak marks the second time that Farm Pride Foods, the affected producer, has faced avian influenza in the past four years. The company reported that 80,000 free-range hens at the Lethbridge Aviary site have been impacted, constituting 8% of their total production capacity. Additionally, another 40,000 birds in the Lethbridge area are also undergoing monitoring and testing as a precaution.
Following the detection of avian influenza at these Victorian poultry farms, Agriculture Victoria has implemented movement restrictions in an effort to contain the spread of the virus. The affected property in Lethbridge has been placed under quarantine, and contact tracing is being conducted to identify the source of the infection.
Notably, the H7N3 strain of avian influenza found at the Lethbridge farm has previously been detected in wild birds. Agriculture Victoria is currently exploring disposal options for the hens impacted by the outbreak, emphasizing the importance of reporting any unexplained poultry deaths to prevent further spread of the virus.
Authorities are urging poultry owners within restricted areas to keep their birds enclosed in cages or sheds to minimize the risk of transmission. The concentration of poultry enterprises in the Golden Plains region, where the affected farms are located, underscores the need for heightened vigilance and reporting of any suspicious poultry deaths.
With the recent surge in avian influenza cases in Victoria, Agriculture Victoria is working diligently to support affected businesses, contain the virus, and prevent its further spread. The ongoing surveillance activities and movement controls are crucial in managing the outbreak and safeguarding the poultry industry in the region.
As the investigation continues into the source and spread of the avian influenza outbreak, poultry farmers and industry stakeholders are advised to remain vigilant and comply with biosecurity measures to mitigate the impact of the virus on the broader poultry farming sector in Victoria.
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