Avian Influenza H5N1 confirmed in wild birds in Dorset
10 Jauary 2008
Defra has today confirmed Avian Influenza in three dead wild mute swans in
the Chesil Beach area in Dorset, following positive test results from the
Veterinary Laboratories Agency for the highly pathogenic strain of H5N1.
These birds were found and tested following our routine surveillance
programme.
A Wild Bird Control Area and Monitoring Area are being established around
the premises, encompassing Chesil Beach and Portland Bill, and the shape of
these is based on expert ornithological advice.
Inside these areas bird keepers are required to house their birds or
otherwise isolate them from contact with wild birds, bird movements will be
restricted, and bird gatherings are banned. Defra is also working closely
with ornithological and other experts to consider what wider measures may
be needed.
No disease has been found in domestic birds, and a programme of
surveillance is being carried out in the local wild bird population. There
will be no culling of wild birds because such action may disperse birds
further and would not aid control.
Acting Chief Veterinary Officer Fred Landeg said:
"While this is obviously unwelcome news, we have always said that
Britain is at a constant low level of risk of introduction of Avian
Influenza. Our message to all bird keepers, particularly those in the
area, is that they must be vigilant, report any signs of disease
immediately, and practice the highest levels of biosecurity."
A full epidemiological investigation is underway.
All poultry keepers on the GB Poultry Register are being notified, and the
EU Commission has been informed.
