‘Huge implications’ expected as record wave of bird flu has half a million UK fowl killed

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The UK’s chief veterinary officer Christine Middlemiss revealed there is a “phenomenal level” of the disease at 40 premises at the start of the season. And she warned it has “huge human, animal and trade implications”. But the risk to humans from avian flu remains very low and there is little danger to food safety. Dr Middlemiss revealed the flu is being spread by migratory birds returning from the north of Russia and eastern Europe.

So far the bug has also been found in wild geese, ducks, swans and birds of prey. They only began returning a few weeks ago and will keep flying in until March – meaning a prolonged spell of security measures.

Referring to the birds culled, Dr Middlemiss said: “I know that sounds a huge number, and of course for those keepers affected it’s really devastating. But in terms of food supply impact it’s actually relatively a very small number in terms of egg supply, meat, chicken and so on.” Stocks of turkeys and other Christmas poultry are unlikely to be hit.

Premises with confirmed outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 have been found in Suffolk, East and North Yorkshire, Suffolk, Co Tyrone and Co Antrim. An Avian Influenza Prevention Zone was declared across the UK on November 3 then extended on November 29 to order that all captive birds must be kept indoors. The risk is deemed very high in England. Measures taken include moving roaming birds in Royal Parks indoors.

Environment Secretary George Eustice said: “I have to say this year we are now seeing the largest-ever outbreak in the UK of avian influenza.” An RSPB spokesman advised: “Everyone should take care to maintain good hygiene when feeding garden birds. This means regularly cleaning feeders outside with mild disinfectant, removing old bird food, spacing out feeders, and washing hands.”

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