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Pigeon Paramyxovirus - advice for bird show participants
Biosecurity SA recommends that the showing, racing and grouping of pigeons ceases until further notice.
However, the grouping of any bird species carries the risk of spreading disease. All exhibitors should monitor the current situation regarding paramyxovirus and make their own decision on whether they wish to enter their poultry and aviary birds into a show. Updates of information can be found on the Biosecurity SA website.
What can bird exhibitors do?
There are a few simple things that stud breeders and exhibitors attending bird shows can do to help prevent the spread of disease.
- Do not take any birds to a show if there are signs of illness in your flock
- All bird equipment and permanent carrying containers should be cleaned and disinfected before and after a show
- While at the show, exhibitors should not handle birds other than their own, but if this is necessary, exhibitors should always thoroughly wash their hands between handling birds; and
- On returning home, show birds should always undergo a period of quarantine (isolation) before re-introduction to the flock. This quarantine should last for a minimum of 21 days; and
- Keep a register of all bird movements in and out of your premises, particularly to shows.
What judges should do
Judges should take care to keep their clothing and equipment clean. They should disinfect their hands between handling birds.
What can show organisers do?
Show organisers and club members can also play their part in minimising the risk of passing on infection by:
- Monitoring the current disease situation and immediately cancelling shows if necessary
- Ensuring that all exhibitors at the show are aware of the current situation regarding pigeon paramyxovirus and the need to report any signs of disease in their birds
- Keeping adequate records of exhibitors and birds attending shows and club meetings. This will be essential in aiding traceback in the event of an outbreak occurring in South Australia
- Where possible, different species should not be on display in the same pavilion - in particular waterfowl should not be in the same area as poultry or other birds
- Inspect to ensure adequate cleaning and disinfection has been performed on cages brought into bird shows
- Minimise handling of birds and access to them by the public (i.e. a 1 metre rope barrier to prevent possible contact with birds)
- Isolate any birds that show signs of being sick
- Consider having a veterinarian present or contactable by telephone on the day(s) of the show; and
- Report any sick or dead birds immediately to Biosecurity SA and discuss the need to prevent other birds from leaving the show.
Biosecurity SA Emergency Animal Disease Hotline 1800 675 888.
- Page URL: http://www.pir.sa.gov.au/biosecuritysa/animalhealth/animal_health/pigeon_paramyxovirus/pigeon_paramyxovirus_-_advice_for_bird_show_participants
- Page Last Modified: November 8, 2011