Farmers should remain vigilant after bird flu outbreak

Farmers have been advised to remain vigilant for any signs of bird flu in their stock.

The advice comes after an outbreak of avian influenza was reported at a farm near Leominster last week.

A control zone has been put in place around the farm which is understood to be in Knapton between Hereford and Leominster.

This control zone means there are additional restrictions are in place for bird keepers within a 15-mile radius.

NFU chief poultry adviser Aimee Mahony said: “I would urge all poultry keepers to continue practicing enhanced biosecurity at all times and to be vigilant for any signs of disease in their flock.

“I would also ask members of the public who keep poultry such as hens, geese and ducks to follow Defra’s biosecurity advice as they have an important part to play in reducing the risk of Avian Influenza to their own birds, as well as the commercial poultry sector.

“The risk to public health from this virus is very low and the Food Standards Agency has also made it clear that it does not pose a food safety risk.”

The Chief Veterinary Officer, Christine Middlemiss, advises the following:

• Cleansing and disinfecting clothing, footwear, equipment and vehicles before and after contact with poultry – if practical, use disposable protective clothing
• Reducing the movement of people, vehicles or equipment to and from areas where poultry are kept to minimise contamination from manure, slurry and other products and using effective vermin control
• Thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting housing at the end of a production cycle
• Keeping fresh disinfectant at the right concentration at all points where people should use it, such as farm entrances and before entering poultry housing or enclosures
• Minimising direct and indirect contact between poultry and wild birds, including making sure all feed and water is not accessible to wild birds.

If you suspect any type of bird flu in poultry or captive birds you must report it immediately by calling the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200301.

If you find any dead wild waterflow (swans, geese or ducks) or other dead wild birds, such as gulls or birds of prey, you should report them to the Defra helpline on 03459 335577.