07.11.09; Protection measures in relation to avian influenza in several third countries
The European Commission adopted several protection measures in relation to avian influenza, following the outbreak of that disease in south-east Asia that started in December 2003 and that was caused by a highly pathogenic H5N1 virus.
Those measures are laid down in Commission Decisions which apply until 31 December 2009.
Outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza of subtype H5N1 continue to occur in poultry and wild birds in third countries. Furthermore, human cases and even deaths resulting from close contact with infected birds continue to occur in countries around the globe.
Therefore, there remains the risk that the disease will spread from third countries to the EU Member States.
The period of application of those Decisions have therefore been extended until 31 December 2010.
The protection measures apply to
(a) fresh meat of poultry, ratites and farmed and wild feathered game;
(b) meat preparations and meat products consisting of, or containing meat of the species referred to in point (a);
(c) raw pet food and unprocessed feed material containing any parts of those species;
(d) eggs for human consumption;
(e) non-treated game trophies from any birds; and
(f) pet birds accompanying their owners.
Vetimpleg explains the consequences.
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