Egg12-03

Confirmed detection of low Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Ducks in Victoria - Third update

Reference: MAA2012/03
Date of issue: 2 February 2012
Date of effect: Immediate

Attention:

Australian Egg Corporation Ltd
Export registered egg establishments
Regional staff

Affected Markets

ALL

Further Information

Contact:  Ian Lyall
Email: Exports
Telephone:  02) 6272 3933

Contact:  Lynda Feazey
Email: Exports
Telephone:  02) 6272 3933

The Australian Animal Health Laboratory (AAHL) has confirmed that low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) has been detected in two ducks from a property in Victoria. In accordance with Australia’s notification obligations, this incident was reported to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) on 27 January 2012. The affected property has been placed under quarantine and will be depopulated. A second property in close contact with the affected farm has also been placed under quarantine and will be depopulated as a precaution.

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) has provided formal notification of this disease incident to trading partners including Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, South Africa, United States of America, Canada and New Zealand. As a result of this detection, it is anticipated that some markets may close in the short term. DAFF will be working closely with our Embassy staff in these countries to try to reopen these markets at the earliest opportunity.

DAFF Biosecurity provides veterinary public health certification for the export of eggs and egg products in accordance with importing country requirements. Some overseas countries require a declaration for freedom from avian influenza. DAFF has reviewed its veterinary health declaration in relation to LPAI to determine the implications for Australian egg and egg product exports. In light of this, there are some statements relating to avian influenza freedom that DAFF can no longer declare on certification for export. As such this certification will be temporarily suspended. A list of this applicable certification and corresponding countries is provided in Attachment 1.

DAFF will work closely with Australian industries and relevant trading partners to ensure the certification of eggs and egg products continue to comply with Australian legislation and importing country requirements. DAFF is committed to supporting exporters and will seek to facilitate entry for consignments of eggs and egg products currently in transit - please contact DAFF (details above) to register your shipment details as soon as possible.

The information provided above is current at the time of writing and is intended for use as guidance only and should not be taken as definitive or exhaustive. The Commonwealth endeavours to keep information current and accurate, however, it may be subject to change without notice.  Exporters are encouraged to verify these details with their importers prior to undertaking production/exports. The Commonwealth will not accept liability for any loss resulting from reliance on information contained in this notice.

Attachment 1