Avian Influenza Update
12th November 2007
DEFRA has confirmed Avian Influenza in turkeys on premises near Diss on the Suffolk/Norfolk border after preliminary tests were positive for the H5 strain. The premises also contain ducks and geese. All birds on the premises will be slaughtered.
Samples are being tested to confirm whether the disease is high or low pathogenic. Full confirmation of results is expected on 13th November, but the highly pathogenic H5N1 strain of the disease is suspected.
Information
Avian influenza id a notifiable disease and must be reported to Animal Health. There is no reason for public health concern. Avian influenza is a disease of birds and whilst it can pass very rarely and with difficulty to humans it requires extremely close contact with infected birds, particularly faeces. Advice from the Food Standards Agency remains that properly cooked poultry and poultry products including eggs are safe to eat.
A Protection Zone of 3km radius and a Surveillance Zone of 10km have been established around the infected premises. A wider Restricted Zone covering Suffolk and parts of south Norfolk has also been introduced.
Restrictions apply to the movement of poultry within the restricted areas. Poultry must be isolated from wild birds. As further information is becomes available, the controls in place may be adjusted.
All bird gatherings - including shows, markets, fairs and pigeon races - have been banned throughout England, Scotland and Wales until further notice. The ban will be kept under review.
Local Authorities have the following responsibilities:
- to enforce controls within the local area. This includes restrictions relating to the isolation of poultry from wild birds; movement controls; and the erection of road signs.
- enforcing the ban on bird gatherings;
- providing advice and support for the farming industry in their area as well as local residents.
Keepers of birds have been urged to be vigilant and to exercise good bio-security. Any owners that suspect disease should act quickly and notify Emergency Planning staff, Animal Health, or the local vet. Updated information will be posted on the Council's website and community message board in the Tourist Information Centre.
Up to date information may be obtained from the Ministry web site at DEFRA Avian Flu
