Bird flu in New Zealand

New Zealand lies in the southwest of the Pacific Ocean and consists of two large islands (the North Island and the South Island), as well as many small islands. In Maori (the language of the native indigenous people) it is called Aotearoa (meaning the Land of the Long White Cloud). Is rather isolated geographically, being separated from Australia by the Tasman sea, some 2,000 kilometers across. Other neighbours (to the north) are New Caledonia, Fiji and Tonga.

Extensive program proves country is free of bird flu

Monday, July 24th, 2006

A comprehensive testing programme, analyzing thousands of poultry meat samples, was completed successfully in New Zealand and proved the country’s poultry industry to be free of any traces of bird flu virus. The tests focused on all types of avian influenza, be it highly pathogenic or low pathogenic strains. The number of samples tested met an internationally agreed level of statistical validity to be accepted. Authorities say that the country is relying on strict on-farm biosecurity measures and surveillance on the internal industry, ensuring the poultry meat industry would not have to suffer from the disease. International institutions (such as the World Organization for Animal Health) required such testing to further trust New Zealand’s poultry products and the country therefore took action, as part of a global network for early warning and detection of highly pathogenic avian flu.

Posted in New Zealand

New Zealand study analyzing bird flu spread

Monday, July 3rd, 2006

A study to take place in two North Island areas in New Zealand will survey backyard poultry, mainly hens, ducks, geese and turkeys, as well as their owners, in an attempt to see whether or not these flocks can become infected with bird flu from wild bird populations, under local conditions. The National Center for Biosecurity and Infectious Disease is responsible for the study, which hopes to prevent the appearance of the disease in a country not yet affected by the deadly H5N1 virus. The study will last for two years and initially 10 properties in each area will be under close supervision, with the figure later expanded to 50 farms in total.

Posted in New Zealand