Avian influenza strikes turkey farm in Norfolk

A new case of highly pathogenic avian influenza has been confirmed on a commercial free-range turkey premises, near Watton in mid-Norfolk – the third case of the current “season” (which officially starts each year on 1 October).

The latest outbreak is of the H5N1 strain – the same as was discovered in a backyard flock of 42 birds in Cornwall on 17 November, which was linked to the discovery of dead sea birds in the area.

See also: Avian influenza – one farm’s robust plans to combat the threat

A 3km protection zone and a 10km surveillance zone have been declared surrounding the Norfolk premises and all the poultry on the site are being humanely culled.

Laying hens

Earlier this season, on 5 November, the avian influenza strain H5N5 was found on a flock of 24,000 laying hens near Hornsea, in the East Riding of Yorkshire.

Following successful completion of disease control activities and surveillance in the zone around that premises, the 3km protection zone has ended and been integrated with the surveillance zone.

“Whilst there have been no cases of HPAI confirmed in Wales or Scotland during this outbreak, in line with World Organisation for Animal Health rules, Great Britain is no longer free from highly pathogenic avian influenza,” said a government statement.

All poultry keepers are reminded to pay the greatest attention to maintaining strict biosecurity on their holdings.