A second case of avian influenza has now been detected at a farm 4km from an initial case at Lethbridge a week ago.

The free-range operation has been quarantined and movement controls remain in place to prevent further spread of the H7N7 virus.

A restricted area has been created west of Lethbridge – and around that, a ‘control area’ has been created across the Golden Plains Shire banning the movement of birds, products or associated equipment without permission until further notice.

The control area includes Meredith, Steiglitz, Smythes Creek and Rokewood – but not Elaine or any other part of the Moorabool Shire.

The initial restricted and control areas were not extended after news of the second infected farm.

“With avian influenza present in wild birds in Australia, these incidents happen periodically and can have a devastating impact on the farms involved which are good farming operations”, Australian Eggs Managing Director, Rowan McMonnies said.

“This incident comes at a difficult time with COVID19 impacting Victoria.

“The farms involved form a relatively small part of our national egg production which provides 17 million eggs to Australians every day.

“Fortunately, egg farms are not impacted by the Stage 4 restrictions and production across the industry has remained steady since March.

“Australian consumers should take comfort that eggs remain safe to eat and egg farmers will be working hard during this difficult time.”

Agriculture Victoria said Avian Influenza was a notifiable disease, which means people must legally report sick or suspected sick birds to Agriculture Victoria on 4334 2715.

While the chicken industry is at risk, the most susceptible species include domestic ducks, geese, quails, guinea fowl, pheasants, turkeys and ostriches.

The department said infection of humans was rare and usually occurred via contact with infected poultry.

People wanting to move poultry or poultry products within the restricted area should go to .. https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/biosecurity/animal-diseases/poultry-diseases/avian-influenza-bird-flu

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Gabrielle Hodson
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