Bird Flu (Avian Influenza): Latest Situation in England
Published Date: December 19, 2024
Introduction:
England is currently facing an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1, commonly known as bird flu. This virus poses a significant threat to poultry and captive birds, and can have severe consequences for the poultry industry and bird populations.
Current Situation:
As of December 19, 2024, there have been 154 confirmed cases of bird flu in England, affecting both commercial poultry flocks and captive and wild birds. The virus has been detected in 30 counties across the country.
Control Measures:
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) is implementing strict control measures to prevent the spread of the virus. These measures include:
- Declaring 10km surveillance zones around infected premises
- Ordering the culling of infected flocks and contact birds
- Imposing movement restrictions on poultry and captive birds
- Implementing enhanced biosecurity measures on poultry farms and other premises where birds are kept
Public Health Risk:
Bird flu poses a low risk to public health. There have been no confirmed cases of human infection in England. However, members of the public are advised to avoid contact with sick or dead birds and to practice good hygiene when handling poultry or visiting farms.
Impact on the Poultry Industry:
The bird flu outbreak is having a significant impact on the poultry industry in England. The culling of infected flocks and the movement restrictions are causing disruption to the supply chain and increasing costs for farmers.
Advice for Bird Keepers:
Bird keepers are urged to take steps to protect their flocks from infection. This includes:
- Implementing strict biosecurity measures on their premises
- Minimizing contact between their birds and wild birds
- Vaccinating their birds against bird flu
- Reporting any suspected cases of bird flu to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA)
Additional Resources:
- DEFRA: Bird Flu (Avian Influenza)
- APHA: Bird Flu (Avian Influenza)
- Public Health England: Bird Flu (Avian Influenza)
Bird flu (avian influenza): latest situation in England
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