Quarantine finds avian influenza

A consignment of imported pigeons was being held in high-level quarantine facilities in Melbourne when several of the birds tested positive for avian influenza and newcastle disease antibodies.

The detection of the antibodies demonstrates that the quarantine system, which includes a mandatory post-arrival holding period to check for disease, is working as intended.

Three birds from a consignment of 102 imported last month from Canada tested positive to avian influenza antibodies and four to Newcastle Disease antibodies during post-arrival quarantine at an Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS) high-security facility in Melbourne.

Although several of the birds have avian influenza and newcastle disease antibodies, none of the birds tested positive to having the actual virus.

The birds will not be released in Australia. The seven birds with antibodies will be euthanized. AQIS is in contact with Canadian authorities about returning the remaining birds to that country as soon as possible.

Importantly, there are no human or bird health issues associated with these pigeons as they have been contained in a purpose-built high-level quarantine facility since there arrival in Australia while tests have been conducted.

This detection demonstrates the importance and effectiveness of Australia’s strict quarantine regime.

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