This notice is aimed at restricting the spread of the outbreak which may have a devastating effect on the Zambian poultry industry.

The Republic of Zambia is not the only country that has issued the import ban of chicken and chicken products.

The Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock has since, with immediate effect, reactivated the Avian Influenza Multi-spectral National Response Committee that was formed in 2012 to respond to the current threat.

Additionally, the ministry has also stepped up surveillance at various water bodies that are within the route for wild migratory birds.

Furthermore, the government has also indicated that imports of parent stocks will be allowed from HPAI-free countries after a thorough risk assessment has been conducted.

With reference to the above key issues, farmers have been urged to undertake the following measures:

• Report any abnormal deaths of chickens and guinea fowls or any other birds to the nearest Veterinary Services Office,
• Ensure that interactions between domestic wild birds and animals are avoided,
• Ensure that high level of biosecurity and hygiene, which include preventing any contact with domesticated or wild animals, mechanical vectors etc, including water sources, are put into practice.