Cull after more bird flu cases identified on farms


Two cases of bird flu have been confirmed at poultry farms in Lincolnshire and East Yorkshire. As a result, all birds at the farms located near Pocklington and Mablethorpe respectively, will be culled as a part of humane measures. Additionally, the authorities have declared a protection zone of 3km and 10km surveillance zone around the sites to contain any further spread. These measures will restrict the movement of birds, meat and eggs in the area.

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 has led to the outbreak at the farms. Earlier this week, similar cases were detected at farms near Beverley and Nafferton. Infection from H5N1 spreads through droppings and saliva of the birds or through water and contaminated feed. However, scientists claim that the current risk to humans is low, as the virus spread from birds to humans through direct contact or consumption of contaminated food consistently.

Furthermore, in December, Defra had mandated keeping all poultry and other captive birds within locked enclosures in parts of East England and Yorkshire to prevent the spread of bird flu. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has yet again urged the bird-keepers to be vigilant and report any signs of illness in their flock. Being proactive and quick to report symptoms provides the best chance of limiting the spread, officials have suggested.

The government has warned that if avian flu is confirmed in wild birds, restrictions on gatherings of birds will be proposed to reduce transmission risk. As a result, in light of the current situation, all farmers in the region are being asked to limit the movement of staff and vehicles and implement proper bio-security measures

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