Falkland Islands Avian Influenza; Stanley declared as Temporary Control Area
In this case, a fatal Southern Pipit (Fulmar Glacialoides) tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza.
A severe case of avian influenza was detected in the Falkland Islands, and a temporary control area was immediately declared in the capital Stanley and corresponding measures were taken against poultry and animal trade until at least November 23.
A dead glacier petrel was found on a property in the capital Stanley on October 30, according to a statement issued jointly by Falkland Islands Director of Natural Resources Dr Andrea Clausen and the Falkland Islands Veterinary Service. While one dead bird is not enough to consider a major infection, birds that are less common in the Falkland Islands are regularly swabbed to allow for better monitoring.
Unfortunately, in this case, the dead Fulmar Glacialoides tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza.
In view of this, the government took strict measures, first declaring the capital Stanley as a temporary control area under the Animal Health Act.
The areas and areas known as Stanley City are considered temporary control areas to prevent the spread of disease (avian influenza)
The temporary control zone includes all areas surrounding Stanley City
For the purposes of this measure, the entire urban perimeter, whether partly within or partly outside the temporary control zone, must be considered fully included.
Within the Temporary Control Area, the applicable restrictions and requirements are detailed below:
Poultry or animal products may only enter and exit the Temporary Control Area under a special permit granted under section 9 of the Ordinance for destruction in the ovens of the Shawan Slaughterhouse.
This temporary zone declaration will cease to be effective on November 23rd.
Anyone who keeps or cares for specimens of animals or birds in the Temporary Control Area must comply with the guidelines and biosecurity measures in Section 6 of the Ordinance promulgated by Government House.
Finally, anyone who fails to comply with the terms of the Declaration may be prosecuted for an offense which, if convicted, carries penalties of up to £4,000 or imprisonment for up to 6 months, or both.
The Falkland Islands Government has prepared information and guidance on avian influenza in an attempt to prevent or mitigate the risk of the virus spreading: https://falklands.gov.fk/agriculture/avian-influenza
It should be added that the famous ornithologist and bird photographer of the Islands, Tom Chater, explained that the southern shearwater does not breed in the Falkland Islands and rarely comes ashore on the islands, but it is a kelp (algae). A frequent visitor to the mountains. .Especially in winter if it is in close contact with many of the Falkland native birds as they share the same food sources.