Bird Flu (Avian Influenza): Latest Situation in England
Date: November 5, 2024
Source: GOV UK
Summary:
The UK government has announced an update on the latest situation regarding bird flu (avian influenza) in England. The highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 strain has been detected in both captive and wild birds across the country.
Key Points:
- Confirmation of Outbreak: HPAI H5N1 has been confirmed in several regions of England, including Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, and Kent.
- Spread to Wild Birds: The virus has been detected in multiple wild bird species, including gulls, swans, and geese, indicating widespread transmission in the wild bird population.
- Captive Bird Cases: Numerous outbreaks of HPAI H5N1 have occurred in captive poultry flocks, such as chickens, turkeys, and ducks.
- Precautionary Measures: Strict biosecurity measures have been implemented across England to prevent further spread of the disease. These include:
- Mandatory housing of poultry in enclosed areas
- Restrictions on the movement of poultry and poultry products
- Enhanced surveillance and monitoring of avian health
- Public Health Risk: The government emphasizes that the current outbreak primarily affects birds, and the risk to human health is very low. However, people are advised to avoid contact with dead or sick birds and to practice good hygiene.
Action Taken by the Government:
- Disease Control Zones: Protection and surveillance zones have been established around infected premises to limit the spread of the disease.
- Culling of Infected Birds: Poultry flocks that test positive for HPAI H5N1 are humanely culled to prevent further transmission.
- Financial Support for Affected Farmers: Financial assistance is available to farmers whose birds have been culled due to bird flu.
Advice for the Public:
- Report Dead or Sick Birds: Anyone finding dead or visibly sick wild birds is urged to report them to Defra’s Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) at 03459 335577.
- Practice Good Hygiene: Hands should be washed thoroughly after handling poultry or birds, and any contaminated clothing should be disinfected.
- Avoid Contact with Wild Birds: People are advised to avoid contact with wild birds, especially in areas where bird flu outbreaks have been reported.
- Cook Poultry Thoroughly: Poultry and poultry products should be cooked thoroughly before consumption to kill any potential viruses.
Conclusion:
The government is closely monitoring the situation and working to control the spread of bird flu in England. While the risk to human health remains low, the public is encouraged to follow the advice provided and to report any suspicious cases of bird flu. By working together, we can help to minimize the impact of this disease on both the poultry industry and wildlife.
Bird flu (avian influenza): latest situation in England
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