New Bird Flu Cases in England and Scotland

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The National Gamekeepers’ Organisation – in the wake of yesterday’s announcement that a wild duck found dead in Wales was infected with Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza of the H5N8 strain – can report that further cases of bird flu of the same strain have today (23 December) been confirmed in England and Scotland.

Dead wild wigeon were found to be infected with H5N8 bird flu in Somerset and Leicestershire, while in Dumfries and Galloway a dead wild peregrine falcon tested positive for the identical strain of avian influenza. More details can be found on the Defra website by clicking here

The NGO has already called on its members to report dead wild waterfowl (swans, geese or ducks) or gulls, or five or more dead wild birds of other species, when encountered in the same location in unusual circumstances, to the Animal and Plant Health Agency helpline on 0300 303 8268.

At this time of year, few keepers will have captive birds, but those who do are reminded that the Prevention Zones, which were announced on 6 December for the whole of England, Wales and Scotland, remain in force. It is essential that enhanced biosecurity measures are adhered to, including the need to take appropriate steps to keep captive birds separate from wild birds.

Northern Ireland has now also declared a 30-day Prevention Zone and has suspended bird gatherings of certain species of birds. Click here for details.

A spokesman for the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation said: “The cases of bird flu reported today and yesterday are in widely separated parts of Wales, England and Scotland. Keepers, whose work makes them ideally placed to report the discovery of dead wild birds, should ensure they know how to spot the symptoms of bird flu. Please note there is extensive advice on bird flu, including information on disease symptoms, on the Defra website. The NGO will continue to issue further updates, should that be required.”