The government's Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has confirmed a significant case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 at a commercial poultry premises near Hallow in the Malvern Hills, Worcestershire.
New Outbreaks Across England
This discovery in the Midlands is part of a wider pattern of infections. Earlier on Friday, November 8, two further cases were identified at large commercial poultry sites in Norfolk, near Attleborough and Feltwell.
This follows a recent confirmation at a farm with thousands of turkeys near Wells-next-the-Sea and another at a large commercial unit near Ormesby St Margaret on 31 October.
Immediate Government Action
In response to these outbreaks, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has implemented strict control zones. A 3km protection zone and a 10km surveillance zone have been established around each of the infected sites in Norfolk.
All poultry at these locations will be humanely culled to prevent further spread of the disease. These measures are part of a pre-existing 'avian influenza prevention zone' currently in force across Great Britain.
Biosecurity and Public Guidance
Defra has reiterated that the risk to the general public from the H5N1 virus remains very low. However, they strongly advise people not to touch or move any dead or sick wild birds they may find.
For bird keepers, especially those with more than 50 birds, it is crucial to follow stringent biosecurity and hygiene rules. The APHA has urged vigilance, stating these measures are essential to prevent future outbreaks and stop the virus from spreading further.
