The provincial government has taken yet another step in efforts to stop an avian influenza outbreak before it starts.

Until March 31st, 2007 Manitoba Agriculture will provide free exams of dead or live birds submitted by small flock owners to the province's veterinary laboratory. 


Assistant Deputy Minister Dr.Allan Preston says the program will allow the province to detect a-i in non-commercial flocks earlier than before.


Preston says it's incredibly important to diagnose a-i early, and this program will help plug a hole in our defences.


Any large die off or drop in egg production in flocks over 2 weeks of age is a good reason to submit birds for testing.


Dead or live birds can be taken to your local vet for submission, or directly to the provincial lab at the University of Manitoba.