Bird flu confirmed at 32,000-bird free-range egg farm

A commercial poultry farm in Northumberland has become the latest premises affected by bird flu, with an estimated 32,000 free-range laying hens affected.

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was confirmed near Belford, north Northumberland, on 19 October.

See also: UK records first bird flu outbreak of the season

A 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been established around the premises, with all birds on the affected holding to be culled.

The outbreak is the second confirmed case of HPAI in Great Britain this season, following an H5N5 infection in a backyard flock near Ness on the Isle of Lewis earlier this month.

Great Britain has subsequently lost its HPAI disease-free status, with implications for international trade.

British Free Range Egg Producers Association head of strategy Gary Ford said: “It’s not unexpected, but clearly disappointing for the industry and particularly distressing for the farmer and their family concerned.”

Last season, 100 premises were affected by avian influenza.

Mr Ford said the disease control strategy remains unchanged, with early reporting, rapid culling and thorough cleansing and disinfection essential to limit its spread.

“Last year we saw much greater use of whole-house gassing, something like 60% of infected premises were whole-house gassed. So, we can expect more of the same this year,” he added.

Veterinary biosecurity reviews

Poultry producers in England are being encouraged to take advantage of funded veterinary biosecurity reviews under Defra’s Animal Health and Welfare Pathway.

Launched in May, the scheme offers £430/review, with eligible businesses able to claim for up to three visits per qualifying site.

Farmers can select their own vet, who will assess disease risks, recommend improvements and provide a written report.

“The main approach to this dreadful disease is, as we know, farm hygiene. So, if there’s a free veterinary visit to review biosecurity, then that has got to be a positive step forward,” said Mr Ford.

NFU Poultry Board chair Will Raw added: “As we see an increase in migratory birds arriving in the UK, we are urging all poultry keepers, regardless of the size of their flock, to maintain the highest standards of biosecurity and remain vigilant for any signs of disease.”

Vaccination prospects

Meanwhile, trials of avian influenza vaccines are continuing, including recent work involving turkeys, although results have yet to be fully analysed.

Mr Ford said vaccination could eventually become another tool for protecting commercial poultry.

“We believe it’s effective, we believe it works. We believe it’s the right thing going forward because you know we maintain the health and welfare of our commercial poultry through a range of vaccines.”

However, he stressed that international trade restrictions and the need for agreement between trading partners remained significant obstacles to widespread uptake.