DEFRA publishes report on UK bird flu case

DEFRA has published an epidemiology report into the avian flu outbreak confirmed on a free range layer unit near Banbury, UK earlier this month, Farmers Weekly reports.

The report concludes that, at the time of writing (11 June), the outbreak is confined to a single premises and there is no evidence of infection in the Protection Zone or of spread to any other premises. However, investigations continue.

It suggests that it is possible that a low pathogenic strain already present on the farm had mutated into the highly pathogenic H7N7 avian flu. Analysis and investigations are continuing and a number of source hypotheses are being considered.

Chief veterinary officer, Nigel Gibbens, said: "The UK is at a constant, but low level of risk of the introduction of avian flu and the report highlights the need for flock owners and poultry vets to remain vigilant for signs of disease, including the possibility of low pathogenic avian flu."

Related link:
DEFRA report

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Editor WorldPoultry