New avian flu case confirmed in Essex

Testing is underway to confirm the pathogenicity of the strain, in the UK’s latest avian flu outbreak. Temporary control zones of 3km and 10km have been put in place around the premises.

This latest confirmed case follows recent outbreaks of highly pathogenic H5N1 at poultry premises in Warwickshire; the Angus constituency, Scotland; and near Chirk, Wales. A case was also confirmed at a wild bird rescue centre near Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire last month.

Gatherings of poultry, galliforme birds (pheasants, partridge, quail, chickens, turkey and guinea fowl) or anseriforme birds (ducks, geese, and swans) are now banned.

An Avian Infleunza Prevention Zone is also in place across Great Britain, meaning all bird keepers are required by law to take a range of biosecurity precautions, including:

• Keeping free-ranging birds in fenced areas to minimise contact with wild birds, neighbouring poultry or captive birds
• Inspecting outdoor areas, removing wild bird contaminants like faeces, feathers and wild bird carcases
• Fencing off or put netting over areas of standing water or ponds
• Providing feed and water undercover, so wild birds can’t access it
• Making your premises unattractive to wild birds. Use bird scarers, foils or streamers
• Keeping ducks and geese separate from other poultry
• Storing bedding under cover to reduce the risk of contamination
• Cleaning and disinfecting footwear before and after tending to your birds. If you own more than 50 birds, place foot dips containing government approved disinfectant at all entry and exit points
• Cleaning and disinfecting hard surfaces regularly
• Cleaning and disinfecting equipment and vehicles to avoid disease spread between premises
• Minimising the movement of people, vehicles and equipment to and from bird areas and keep records of movements
• Keeping records of poultry, captive bird and egg movements
• Maintaining buildings that house birds to prevent water ingress
• Ensuring pest control is effective.