Bird 'flu: don't panic, says CLA
Photo: CLA

News of a confirmed outbreak of Avian Influenza must not cause panic and overreaction in the countryside says the Country Land and Business Association (CLA), which has been involved in joint planning meetings with Defra to prepare action for such an emergency.

Mr Douglas Chalmers, the CLA's Northern Director, issued a statement to members saying:

"We are very aware of our unique role in not only representing our members directly affected by this disease, but also the wider rural economy and, having been in monthly meetings of the Defra bird flu stakeholder group for almost two years, we have been involved in the planning for precisely this contingency in order to prevent a disproportionate response.

"We must not forget that this is primarily a disease of birds and there is no reason to fear human health implications from eating poultry meat and eggs."

"The experience of Foot and Mouth Disease has shown us the devastation and disruption that animal diseases can bring to the rural economy but avian influenza is a very different virus and is not spread in the same way. The countryside is not closed and the general public should continue to support the rural economy by carrying on as normal."

Any Members requiring advice are being asked to contact the regional office, and to monitor the regular announcements from Defra.

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