TBfree New Zealand continues to monitor and take positive steps to manage a bovine tuberculosis (TB) infection in a Northland dairy herd.

Around 350 possums and other wild animals in the surrounding area have been examined since the infection was detected. None have shown signs of TB on initial inspection.

Further laboratory analysis of the samples taken from the wild animals caught is being undertaken. If TB is not found, it indicates the disease is unlikely to be present in local wild animal populations.

However, several more animals in the Awanui-based infected dairy herd have tested positive to TB and will be removed from the herd as soon as possible.

Northern Central North Island Regional Co-ordinator Frank Pavitt said all past movements to and from the infected herd are being investigated and traced. Livestock now located on these properties are being tested.

TBfree New Zealand cattle and deer testing contractors have been out in force to identify any signs of the disease in other herds. Wild animal control contractors have also been working to prevent the disease spreading to possums.

Several herds in Northland require further investigation, with some possibly infected. Further testing in the next week will confirm if the disease has spread from the original herd to others within Northland.

“We appreciate the co-operation of farmers and landowners in allowing our TB testing and wild animal control contractors access to their properties,” said Mr Pavitt

TBfree New Zealand staff will be at the Northland Field Days later this week to speak with farmers about the infection and its response to the situation. You can find us in Rural Pavilion One.

“Since the recent herd infection was identified, TBfree New Zealand has introduced measures to reduce the risk to farmed cattle and deer in the area,” said Mr Pavitt.

“Annual TB testing has begun for herds within a 10-kilometre radius of Kaitaia. All herds neighbouring the infected property have been tested immediately.”

Herdowners can reduce their TB risk by ensuring they register their herd, meet their testing requirements and update their contact details if they move properties. This can be done by contacting 0800 482 4636, visiting www.tbfree.org.nz or speaking with TBfree New Zealand at the Northland Field Days.

For more information:

Frank Pavitt

Northern Central North Island Regional Co-ordinator

Animal Health Board

027 414 1410