Three more cases of the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 virus, otherwise known as bird flu, have been detected in England, according to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).
The most recent case, confirmed on Thursday (July 31) in captive birds in Somerset, has triggered a 3km protection zone.
The other two cases, which were confirmed by Defra on Wednesday (July 30) were both in commercial poultry setups.
One of the cases confirmed was in Tiverton, Mid Devon, while the other case was in Attleborough, Breckland in Norfolk.
Both cases have triggered a 3km protection zone and a 10km surveillance zone around the premises.
The government confirmed that all poultry on the two commercial setups will be humanely culled to prevent any disease-spread.
These three outbreaks bring total confirmed cases in July up to seven, with the last confirmed case being announced on Monday (July 28) as Defra confirmed a case of bird flu in a poultry setup in Somerst.
Bird flu prevention
Defra advised bird owners to keep up-to-date with the virus and monitor the interactive bird flu map on the department’s website.
The virus, which affects poultry and wild birds, spreads through contaminated feed and water, or through birds’ droppings and saliva.
Infected birds show signs including: sudden death; a swollen head; closed and runny eyes; lack of coordination; tremors; dropping of the wings; dragging legs; breathing difficulties; fever; and significant reduction in egg production.
The government is also reminding people to register as keeper of birds within 30 days of taking on poultry or other captive birds, in accordance with the law.
Poultry should be kept away from wild birds, standing water or ponds should be fenced off; rodents and pests controlled; and housing cleaned and disinfected,
Poultry producers are also advised to use clean clothing and footwear, have footbaths available on farm; and limit and control access to the birds.
Defra has also reminded farmers that bird flu is a notifiable disease in poultry and any suspected cases on a farm you should be reported in accordance with the law.
