Avian flu advice for Herefordshire

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Friday, 19 January 2018 11:34

Herefordshire Council is advising poultry farmers and game keepers to follow the latest government advice, in light of the recent outbreak of avian flu across Europe.

Keepers of poultry and other captive birds in Britain are now legally required to keep their birds indoors, or take appropriate steps to keep them separate from wild birds.

Councillor Barry Durkin, Cabinet Member for Transport, Roads and Regulatory Services, said: "Herefordshire Council would like poultry and captive bird keepers in the county to be vigilant for any signs of disease in their birds and any wild birds, and seek prompt advice from their vet if they have any concerns.

"They can help to prevent avian flu by keeping their birds indoors and maintaining good biosecurity on their premises, such as disinfecting clothing, footwear and equipment after contact."

Outbreaks of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N6) have been confirmed in poultry and wild birds in several countries across Europe. One case of H5N6 has been found in the UK and the 'Prevention Zone' is a precautionary measure to help prevent potential infection from wild birds.

For further advice on the biosecurity measures, bird keepers should go to the Defra website on www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu
Anyone who finds dead wild birds should report them to the Defra helpline on 03459 33 55 77.