Poultry

A new spate of H5N1 outbreaks has been confirmed in Suffolk – near Redgrave and Elmswell.

After the first human case of H5 avian flu was detected in the UK, Farmers Guide spoke to virologist Dr Phillip Gould about this rare species jump, and what farmers should be aware of as H5N1 cases escalate in UK birds.

Routine testing revealed very rare case of transmission to a human after close contact with infected birds.

New cases of H5N1 have been confirmed in Lincolnshire, Cumbria and Berkshire so far this month, as well as a number of new confirmed cases over Christmas and New Year.

The UK is facing its most significant avian influenza risk to date.

Defra has confirmed more cases of highly pathogenic H5N1 in Lincolnshire and South Derbyshire, as well as new outbreaks elsewhere in the UK.

Chief vet “very concerned” as around half a million birds culled and the number of premises infected with H5N1 rises to more than 40.

The NFU has been working with the government and industry to find a solution to concerns that migrant seasonal poultry workers would face travel restrictions this year because of Covid-19.

H5N1 has been confirmed at two new premises – near Poulton le Flyde, Wyre and near Clitheroe, Ribble Valley.

Welsh chief veterinary officer says the case is “further evidence of the need for all keepers of birds to ensure they have the very highest levels of biosecurity in place”.

Amid a growing number of confirmed avian flu cases, all UK bird keepers will be required to keep birds indoors and follow strict biosecurity measures.

Bird keepers in parts of North Yorkshire are now required to keep birds indoors.