S.L. 437.93 Art. 11Additional measures based on an epidemiological inquiry.

(1) Based on the preliminary results of an epidemiological inquiry, the competent authority may apply the measures provided for in sub-rules (2), (3) and (4) in particular if the holding is located in an area with a high density of poultry.

(2) Temporary restrictions may be introduced on the movements of poultry, other captive birds and eggs and the movement of vehicles used by the poultry sector in a defined area or in the whole of the territory of Malta. Such restrictions may be extended to movements of mammals of domestic species, but in that case shall not exceed seventy-two hours, unless justified.

(3) The measures provided for in rule 13 may be applied to the holding. However, if conditions permit, application of those measures may be limited to the poultry or other captive birds suspected of being infected and their production units. Samples shall be taken from the poultry or other captive birds if they are killed in order for the risk of a suspected outbreak to be confirmed or excluded, in accordance with the diagnostic manual.

(4) A temporary control zone around the holding may be established and some or all of the measures provided for in rule 8(2) shall be applied as necessary to the holdings within that zone.

CHAPTER IV

HIGHLY PATHOGENIC AVIAN INFLUENZA (HPAI) Section 1 Holdings, separate production units and contact holdings