Biosecurity efforts are progressing in Otago.
Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard has reported good progress in the response to high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) in Otago. Rigorous testing and monitoring have shown no confirmed signs of the disease outside Mainland Poultry's Hillgrove egg farm.
Biosecurity New Zealand, along with industry partners, is working extensively to eliminate the virus. Over 100 Ministry for Primary Industries staff are contributing to the response, including frontline biosecurity, veterinarians, scientists, and food safety staff.
The detection has highlighted the importance of MPI's internationally recognised laboratory at Wallaceville, which is saving time and costs by conducting in-house testing. Laboratory staff are working methodically through hundreds of samples, while egg farmers in Otago are receiving support during this challenging period.
Mr Hoggard emphasized that more work needs to be done, noting the potential incubation period for the disease can range from three to 21 days. The response team will continue investigating and testing to ensure any issues are addressed.