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Horse Flavivirus Survey Report 2011 (PDF 517.4 KB) or Accessible version (Word 836.5 KB)

SA Apiaries Program Review Report

Pigeon Paramyxovirus - Information and Advice

Avian Paramyxovirus - Media Release (14 September 2011)

Biosecurity Fee proposal

Hendra Virus information

Horse Neuro Disease - 30 May Update

Map – horses and Ross River Virus results - 5 May

Acid Drainage Issue - Media Release

Livestock and Exposure to Acid Drainage Water - FAQ

National Sheep Health Statement

NLIS Cattle

NLIS Sheep & Goats

Property Identification Code (PIC) application

Branding

Reporting Unusual Symptoms

SCAHLS (Sub-Committee on Animal Health Laboratory Standards)

Current Issues

Mob Based Movement

Horse Biosecurity Glovebox Guide (pdf)

Animal Health Australia

Situation Report for Industry 21 September 2011

1.  Background

  • Avian paramyxovirus type 1 not previously reported in Australia has been detected in hobby pigeon flocks and one racing pigeon flock on a number of properties in Victoria.
  • Affected pigeon flocks are experiencing high death rates (80% – 100%). Clinical signs seen include lethargy, vomiting and diarrhea and/or nervous signs.

2.  Situation to date

  • Victoria now has 36 confirmed infected properties, all of which are pigeon properties, including one racing pigeon flock.
  • No detections have been made in the South Australian pigeon flock.
  • There are no detections of disease in Australian commercial or backyard poultry flocks, or in wild birds.  
  • Pigeon racing and shows have been cancelled in South Australia until further notice

3.  Actions taken in South Australia 

  • It is prohibited for pigeons to be brought into South Australia from interstate without prior approval from the Chief Inspector of Stock. Significant penalties apply.
  • The Livestock Act of 1997 has been amended to list virulent avian paramyxovirus as a notifiable exotic disease. This means that pigeon and poultry owners and producers, as well as veterinarians are under obligation to report any signs of the disease in their flocks.
  • Biosecurity SA is working to minimise the likelihood of introducing pigeon paramyxovirus into SA pigeon flocks. 
  • Biosecurity SA has recommended that exhibitions, shows and races (including tossing) of pigeons be cancelled until further notice in order to limit mixing of birds. This position is currently under review as the situation in Victoria is becoming clearer
  • Information has been provided to veterinarians, industry and the public about the incident, to increase awareness and provide information about what to look out for, who to contact and measures that can be undertaken to limit the risk to their birds. 
  • BSA has investigated options for vaccinating pigeons. Information is available at Vaccination of birds against Avian Paramyxovirus (PMV-1).
  • Movement restrictions and biosecurity measures remain the primary means for controlling this disease
  • To assist pigeon owners mitigate the risks, Biosecurity SA is promoting good biosecurity practices and movement limitation. A biosecurity factsheet for bird owners has been distributed and is available on the PIRSA website – see Biosecurity for Bird Owners.
  • Suspected cases of paramyxovirus infection should be reported to Biosecurity SA by phoning 1800 675 888.