Bird Flu (Avian Influenza): Latest Situation in England
17 November 2024, 19:11
GOV UK
Situation Overview
As of 17 November 2024, the UK government has confirmed an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 in England. The outbreak has affected multiple commercial poultry flocks in various regions across the country.
Affected Areas and Control Measures
The affected areas include:
- Suffolk
- Norfolk
- Cambridgeshire
- Lincolnshire
- Essex
The government has implemented strict control measures to contain the outbreak, including:
- Establishing protection zones around infected premises
- Implementing movement restrictions on poultry and eggs
- Suspending poultry gatherings and markets
- Enhanced biosecurity measures for poultry farms
Risk to Human Health
The risk to human health from HPAI H5N1 is considered very low. However, the virus can be transmitted to humans through close contact with infected birds or their products, such as poultry meat, eggs, or feathers.
People who work with poultry or handle birds should follow strict biosecurity measures and seek medical advice immediately if they experience any symptoms of avian influenza, such as:
- Fever
- Chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Muscle aches
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Advice to the Public
The public is advised to:
- Avoid contact with sick or dead birds
- Do not handle poultry or eggs from unknown sources
- Cook poultry and eggs thoroughly before eating
- Follow good hygiene practices, such as washing hands regularly with soap and water
Impact on Poultry Industry
The outbreak has had a significant impact on the poultry industry in England. The government has ordered the culling of infected flocks and implemented movement restrictions, which have disrupted the supply chain.
Government Response
The government is working closely with poultry farmers, industry stakeholders, and public health officials to control the outbreak and minimize its impact. It is also working with international partners to monitor the spread of the virus.
Additional Information
For the latest updates on the bird flu situation in England, visit the GOV UK website: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/bird-flu-avian-influenza-latest-situation-in-england
Contact Information
For further information or to report suspected cases of bird flu, contact the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA):
- Phone: 03000 200 301
- Email: apha.enquiries@defra.gov.uk
Bird flu (avian influenza): latest situation in England
The AI has provided us with the news.
I’ve asked Google Gemini the following question, and here’s its response.
GOV UK a new article on 2024-11-17 19:11 titled “Bird flu (avian influenza): latest situation in England”. Please write a detailed article on this news item, including any relevant information. Answers should be in English.
18