Bird Flu (Avian Influenza): Latest Situation in England
Date Published: 2024-12-14 22:31 Source: UK News and communications
Summary:
The UK government has reported a significant outbreak of bird flu (avian influenza) in England, with over 200 cases confirmed in poultry and wild birds since October 2022.
Current Situation:
As of December 14, 2024, the following actions have been taken by the government to control the outbreak:
- Prevention Zone: A Prevention Zone has been declared across England, requiring all bird keepers to follow strict biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of the virus.
- Movement Restrictions: Restrictions have been imposed on the movement of poultry, eggs, and poultry products within and out of infected areas.
- Culling: Infected poultry has been culled to prevent further transmission. Over 1 million birds have been culled as of December 14.
Impact:
The outbreak has had a significant impact on the poultry industry in England.
- Poultry Death Toll: Millions of birds have died as a result of the outbreak, leading to shortages of poultry products in supermarkets.
- Economic Losses: The poultry industry has suffered significant economic losses due to the culling of infected flocks and the disruption to trade.
- Public Health Risk: The risk to human health from bird flu is considered very low. However, people are advised to avoid contact with sick or dead birds and to cook poultry products thoroughly.
Control Measures:
The government is implementing a range of control measures to contain the outbreak. These include:
- Vaccination: A vaccination program is being rolled out across England to protect birds against the virus.
- Surveillance: The government is monitoring the outbreak closely and conducting regular surveillance to identify new cases and prevent further spread.
- Rapid Response Teams: Rapid Response Teams have been established to respond quickly to outbreaks and implement control measures.
Advice to Bird Keepers:
Bird keepers are urged to follow strict biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of bird flu. These measures include:
- Restricting access to their premises
- Maintaining high levels of hygiene
- Isolating sick or dead birds
- Wearing protective clothing and footwear
Additional Information:
- The government has set up a hotline for bird keepers to report suspected cases of bird flu: 03000 200 301
- More information on bird flu and biosecurity measures can be found on the government website: www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu
The government is committed to protecting the country from the spread of bird flu and is taking all necessary steps to control the outbreak.
Bird flu (avian influenza): latest situation in England
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