HOW IS THE VIRUS SPREAD ON THE FARM?

The Avian Influenza virus is excreted by the faeces and respiratory secretions, and therefore, its transmission and spreading on the premises and on different farms occurs in the following way:

• By direct contact with secretions from infected birds, especially faeces.  

• By contaminated clothing, fodder, water and equipment.  

• By inhalation.  

• Movement of persons. Transporting of contaminated hen droppings, eggs or fodder.    

Biosecurity measures can be taken to avoid the virus entering the farm.

 BIOSECURITY MEASURES FOR POULTRY FARMS

• Do not feed the birds in places that may be accessed by wild birds.  

• Keep the birds away from water sources that may also be used by wild birds.  

• Do not allow domestic birds to come into contact with migratory birds.  

• Limit the entry of vehicles and persons from outside the farm premises. Keep a register of every person coming onto the farm premises.  

• Have clothing and footwear to be used exclusively on the farm premises.  

• Adopt strict measures regarding the cleaning and disinfection of materials, agricultural implements, boots and vehicles both when entering and leaving the premises.

What to do in the event of discovering avian influenza?

The rapid detection of an outbreak of avian influenza is essential in order to combat it successfully. 
 
Any suspicion of avian influenza must be reported to the corresponding Local Veterinary Unit, so that the Official Veterinary Services may obtain samples to confirm or discard the disease.

INFORMATION

Spanish Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food website: http://www.mapa.es/es/ganaderia/pags/influenza_aviar/influenza.htm
Telephone: 91 347 82 95

Official website on avian influenza belonging to the Commission for the Monitoring of and Information on the evolution of avian influenza, Ministry of the Office of the Prime Minister: http://www.gripeaviar.es/esp/index.html