Written question asked by Baroness Miller of Chilthorne Domer (Liberal Democrat), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Bach (Labour) on Monday, 7 November 2005.

Avian Flu

Question: With regard to the birds that tested positive for H5N1, whether it is normal practice for birds not to be tested within seven to 14 days of arrival, prior to any birds dying; and why no sentinel chickens were used in these cases.

Answer: During quarantine, there are two alternative procedures for testing birds for avian flu and Newcastle disease: either by the use of sentinel birds which are tested by a blood sample, or by a virus isolation test on each imported bird.The method used will depend on the importer’s preference. If sentinel birds are used the blood samples are taken at least 21 days after the start of quarantine. If virus isolation is used, the samples must be taken seven to 15 days after the start of quarantine. Any birds which die during the quarantine period must be tested by virus isolation.

Secondary information