ANNEX VExamination, sampling and testing procedures for avian influenza and Newcastle disease

(1)During quarantine either the sentinel birds, or if sentinel birds are not used, the imported birds, shall be subjected to the following procedures:

  1. (a)

    with use of sentinel birds:

    1. (i)

      blood samples for serological examination must be taken from all sentinel birds not less then 21 days following their entry into the quarantine and at least three days before the end of the quarantine;

    2. (ii)

      if sentinel birds show positive or inconclusive serological results for the samples referred to in point (i), the imported birds must be subjected to virological examination; cloacal swabs (or faeces) and tracheal/oropharyngeal swabs must be taken from at least 60 birds or from all birds if the consignment is less than 60 birds;

  2. (b)

    without use of sentinel birds, imported birds must be examined virologically (serological testing not being appropriate). Tracheal/oropharyngeal and/or cloacal swabs (or faeces) must be taken from at least 60 birds or from all birds if the consignment is less than 60 birds, during the first 7 to 15 days of the quarantine.