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YORK, December 24, 2023 – A highly contagious strain of bird flu, specifically H5N1, has been confirmed at a large commercial poultry farm located near York, raising concerns for the region’s poultry industry and prompting swift action from authorities. This outbreak underscores the ongoing threat avian influenza poses to bird populations and the potential economic impact on agricultural communities.
Bird Flu Confirmed at Yorkshire Poultry Farm
The highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 virus was detected on a property in the Elvington area, triggering a culling of all birds on site.
- A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 has been confirmed at a poultry farm near York.
- All birds on the affected property will be culled to prevent further spread of the virus.
- A 3km protection zone and a 10km surveillance zone have been established around the farm.
- Strict biosecurity measures are in place within the zones, including housing requirements and movement restrictions.
The department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) announced the confirmation of the H5N1 virus on December 24. The discovery has led to the immediate implementation of control measures designed to contain the outbreak and protect other poultry farms in the surrounding area. The swift response aims to minimize the potential for widespread disruption.
Did you know?– H5N1 avian influenza can affect a wide range of bird species,including domestic poultry like chickens and turkeys,as well as wild birds such as ducks and geese. While rare, human infections have been reported.
Why did this happen? The outbreak was caused by the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 virus, a strain known to be easily spread among birds, especially through contact with infected wild birds or contaminated surfaces. Who is affected? The immediate impact is on the poultry farm near elvington,York,where all birds are being culled. The wider poultry industry in the region and potentially nationally is at risk, as are farmers relying on poultry production. What is being done? DEFRA has initiated a thorough control strategy, including culling, zoning, and movement restrictions. How did it end? As of this report, the outbreak is ongoing, with control measures actively being implemented. The end will be declared once the affected premises have been thoroughly disinfected, surveillance zones have shown no further cases for a defined period, and DEFRA is satisfied the virus has been contained.
All birds on the infected property will be humanely culled. Along with the culling, a 3km protection zone and a 10km surveillance zone have been established around the affected farm.These zones are critical for monitoring the spread of the virus and implementing targeted control measures.
Pro tip– Poultry farmers should review and reinforce their biosecurity measures, including restricting access to the farm, disinfecting equipment, and monitoring birds for signs of illness. Early detection is key.
Within the 3km protection zone, all poultry and captive birds must be housed indoors to prevent contact with wild birds, which are known carriers of the virus. Movement of poultry and eggs into or out of premises within the 10km surveillance zone will be carefully recorded to track potential spread.
These measures are in line with national protocols for managing avian influenza outbreaks and are intended to safeguard the wider poultry population and public health. DEFRA continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as they become available. Poultry farmers are urged to
