Bird Flu

All domesticated poultry species are susceptible to Avian Influenza (AI). Also called avian flu or bird flu called. In the outbreak in 2003 of the H7N2 type that appeared on a limited scale backyard poultry had become infected. Research showed that the risk of infection and spread of the virus in backyard poultry is much smaller than commercial poultry. (1)

Backyard poultry vaccination against bird flu

At the time of the outbreak in 2003 was a ban on vaccination. Due to the worldwide spread of the dangerous H5N1 virus to humans, this vaccine ban on the initiative of the Dutch government in 2006 eased. Hobby poultry should be vaccinated against bird flu since then. The Dutch government must get permission before applications''Brussels''. This permission is for a specified period issued.

The protocol for preventive vaccination was initially - two blood tests, export ban on backyard poultry vaccinated, vaccination at home - has changed since 2007. The blood test is not required before and after vaccination is not mandatory for all hobby keepers blood sample. This will happen randomly. Vaccinated animals may be transported to another Member State provided that State do not object. (2)

The Dutch government since 2006 makes a distinction between commercial poultry and backyard poultry in terms of screening / confinement. In a low risk of infection may backyard poultry, except waterfowl, roam freely. Vaccinated hobby poultry is also at high risk exempt from the screening requirement. (3) All types of vaccines against avian influenza H5 and H7 that since 2007 the European Union on the market, meet the quality standards and are safe and effective use (4).

ResearchSince the outbreaks of bird flu found on businesses regulated research (monitoring) site. Also, wild birds are tested for the presence of bird flu. Worldwide there is much scientific research. It is under further revealed that the H5N1 virus can survive long outside of birds. Varies depending on the circumstances the survival of two weeks to two months. The colder and drier air, the longer the virus remains alive.

It is also clear now why it is that ducks are carrying the virus, not ill. U.S. scientists have discovered a gene that causes bird flu infection with duck a problem through. Chickens do not have this gene.

Low Pathogenic and High Pathogenic

With bird flu a distinction between low pathogenic and highly pathogenic virus. The low pathogenic virus is not very ill, the highly pathogenic is very sickening. For the low pathogenic virus is a different approach than for the highly pathogenic virus. In an outbreak of low pathogenic virus is only removed the infected farm, an outbreak of highly pathogenic virus are also businesses in the area cleared. Vaccination of companies is possible, but for economic reasons still not fully accepted. Also, the existing vaccine is not fast enough to operate a poultry outbreak in a highly dense area quickly to control (see appendix Control of Highly pathogenic Influenza Avia)