An outbreak of Avian influenza has been confirmed among laying chickens at a farm near Redcar.
An outbreak of Avian influenza has been confirmed among laying chickens at a farm near Redcar.
Immediate steps were taken by the Animal and Plant Health Agency and all poultry on the site will be humanely culled.
Public Health England has confirmed the risk to public health is very low and the Food Standards Agency has said Avian Influenza poses a very low food safety risk for UK consumers and that it does not affect the consumption of poultry or eggs.
However, as a precaution, anyone who has bought eggs from a farm in the Redcar area should ensure they follow general food hygiene practices and thoroughly wash their hands after handling the eggs, and should not touch their face without doing so. Detailed advice about the safe cooking of eggs is available Here
Avian Influenza is in no way connected to the COVID-19 pandemic which is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus which is not carried in poultry.
Bird keepers should remain alert for any signs of disease, report suspected disease immediately and ensure they are maintaining good biosecurity on their premises. Do not touch or pick up any dead or visibly sick birds that you find. If you find dead wild waterfowl (swans, geese or ducks) or other dead wild birds, such as gulls or birds of prey, you should report them to the Defra helpline (03459 33 55 77).
Further information about measures recently brought in by the Government to address Avian Influenza is available Here
The interactive map highlighting the Protection zone and Surveillance zone is Here
Posted on: February 8th, 2021
Looking to Volunteer? Get In Touch Today! Contact Us