all poultry Must do so in Spain live indoors From this Thursday. The government yesterday announced a ban on all bird breeding until further notice as a maximum possible measure to stop the impact of bird flu. … . “The (risk) trends are getting worse,” acknowledged Emilio García Muro, general director of the Agriculture, Food Production and Animal Welfare and Health Department. He acknowledged that taking this step would not be easy.
Why are all poultry in confinement now?
In recent years, outbreaks of the highly contagious H5N1 strain have wreaked havoc on birds. In fact, the world is immersed in it worst bird flu outbreak This is known to date and is toxic enough to infect mammals. In recent weeks, infected birds linked to winter migration have appeared in Spain, with 14 outbreaks confirmed on poultry farms since July, raising alarm. Considering the increased risk, the government and autonomous communities have decided to refrain from leaving their homes to avoid contact with infected migratory birds and poultry at all costs. Alternatives if disease infiltration is detected on the farm are: A huge number of specimens were sacrificed. And this year they have already slaughtered 2.5 million specimens.
Which birds can be infected?
It can affect many bird species, including domestic and wild birds. The most susceptible birds are: chicken. Also, Anatidae According to the Ministry of Health, (ducks, geese, swans, etc.) are susceptible, but often only act as carriers. This group of birds, especially migratory birds, is thought to constitute the natural host of the virus.
Can avian influenza infect humans?
Avian influenza is an animal disease that is transmitted from bird to bird and, in exceptional cases, from birds to humans. For this purpose, close and continuous contact In case of sick birds that can affect poultry farm workers. However, although some cases have been detected, the virus does not appear to be ‘effectively’ transmitted from person to person. Therefore, the progression of the disease is being closely monitored.
Will the price of eggs rise further?
Data released this Friday by the National Institute for Statistics (INE) confirms the rise in egg prices. 22.5% increase compared to the previous year. According to the General Director of the Health Department of Agri-Food Production and Animal Welfare, it is: “temporary” situation, That’s because egg prices are “influenced by everything” that has a big impact, including the initial outbreak in some important farms in Spain and the situation at European level. The current situation still remains, and it is necessary to confirm the future situation regarding this. How outbreaks evolve all winter long.
Mari Luz de Santos, director of the Spanish Federation of Companies in the Egg and Egg Products Production Sector (Federobo), said the rise in egg prices “has nothing to do with the government-imposed curfew,” but an increase in demand and adjustments in supply due to factors such as cage-free farming and the virtual spread of avian influenza.
The Small Farmers Federation guarantees: No changes are expected to production at this time. “In the case of chicken meat, production is carried out in secret and no impact is expected. In the case of eggs, the affected eggs are mainly those raised outdoors, which account for about 10% of the total, and will continue to be raised indoors,” the organization said.
Will eggs from cage-free chickens still be sold in the future?
You will be able to see these labels Although it is sold in supermarkets, it is temporarily not practical in terms of domestic production. This is because the curfew measures issued by the government affect all poultry farms, including organic farms and self-consumption farms. “The law states that there may be exceptions,” García Muro explained.
Can the virus be transmitted through eggs or meat?
It is very difficult for contaminated products to reach the market. Still, “so far, there is no epidemiological evidence that avian influenza viruses can be transmitted to humans through the food chain,” the Ministry of Health said in a public document. Also, since the virus is sensitive to heat, easily destroyed by heatfrom 70 degrees. This means that by the time cooked chicken breast turns white, the virus has already been inactivated. It is also wise to avoid soft-boiled eggs in countries with strict health regulations, but boiled eggs do not pose any risks.
Why aren’t birds vaccinated?
Although a vaccine against bird flu exists, the Ministry of Agriculture does not consider the cost-effectiveness of the measure and has ruled out mass vaccination. Currently, he argues, vaccination does not provide absolute protection against the disease, produces many false positives, and allows infected animals to transmit the virus and cover up the spread. It is done only selectively and voluntarily, such as by species recovery centers or interested zoos.
Can avian influenza be transmitted to pets?
The Ministry of Health said that in very exceptional circumstances it could be transmitted to other animals. «Several cases have been detected so far. in cats and other felinesHowever, to avoid any kind of risk, it is wise not to expose your pet to wild birds, especially in areas where outbreaks of avian influenza have been confirmed.
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