Bird Flu (Avian Influenza): Latest Situation in England
Date: 13 January 2025
Source: GOV.UK
Summary:
GOV.UK has released an update on the avian influenza (bird flu) situation in England. As of 13th January 2025, there have been 187 confirmed cases of bird flu in poultry and captive birds in England. This includes 159 cases in commercial flocks and 28 cases in backyard flocks.
The affected areas are located across England, including:
- Norfolk
- Suffolk
- Lancashire
- Cheshire
- Cumbria
- Herefordshire
- Wiltshire
- Dorset
Control Measures:
All infected premises have been placed under restriction zones, and movement of poultry and other captive birds is prohibited within these zones. The government has also implemented a range of biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of the virus, including:
- Enhanced surveillance and monitoring of poultry flocks
- Strict cleaning and disinfection protocols
- Vaccination of poultry in affected areas
- A ban on poultry gatherings and shows
Risk to Human Health:
The risk to human health from bird flu is considered to be very low. However, as a precaution, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) has advised people not to eat poultry or eggs from infected flocks.
Advice for Poultry Keepers:
The Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) is urging all poultry keepers to take extra precautions to protect their flocks from bird flu. This includes:
- Keeping poultry indoors or under cover
- Minimizing contact with wild birds
- Practicing good biosecurity measures
- Reporting any signs of disease to their vet immediately
What to do if you find a sick or dead bird:
Anyone who finds a sick or dead bird should report it to the Defra helpline on 03459 33 55 77. Do not touch the bird or its droppings, and keep children and pets away.
Additional Information:
For more information on bird flu, including signs and symptoms, control measures, and advice for poultry keepers, please visit GOV.UK.
Bird flu (avian influenza): latest situation in England
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