On Friday evening DEFRA confirmed a case of Avian Influenza in a flock of Christmas turkeys which had resulted in 80% mortality. The flock were located near Grainsthorpe, North Lincolnshire. The surviving turkeys have since been euthanised.
The strain of AI has been confirmed as H5N8 which is the same strain that has affected several other European countries. This case confirms that H5N8 has reached the UK in our wild bird population and means that our biosecurity procedures must be strictly enforced.
- Allow only essential persons on site;
- Ensure all visitors wear PPE;
- Ensure all boot dips are changed every other day;
- Ensure good rodent control around over wintered breeding stock;
- For birds in over wintering pens, please discourage wild birds as much as is possible;
- Notify your vet of any signs of ill health in your flock such as increased mortality, a drop in production, respiratory disease signs of a decrease in feed or water intake;
The DEFRA housing order remains in force. There continues to be no restrictions on shooting or movement of dead game. We will update you of any changes in this situation.
If you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact us.
