The Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department today conducted a poultry culling drill to review its preparedness for any avian influenza outbreak.
Over 100 staff of the department and the Civil Aid Service participated in the exercise, which focused on the overall on-site preparation and implementation of biosecurity measures, such as the procedures for wearing and removing protective gear, as well as the disinfection and disposal of carcasses.
A field command centre and a mock chicken farm were set up for participants to conduct their duties, such as mobilising staff and resources, setting up different operation areas, and following personal biosecurity guidelines when entering and leaving.
Apart from implementing bird flu prevention and control measures, the department has stepped up surveillance before the winter season. These measures include conducting surprise inspections targeting local poultry farms and pet bird shops, the collection of more samples from the wholesale poultry market and retail outlets for tests, and enhanced actions to combat illegal importation of live birds at boundary control points.
