Bird flu case confirmed at poultry premises near Ely

The Animal and Plant Health Agency confirmed the presence of Avian Influenza at a large commercial poultry site near Ely.

A three-kilometre protection zone and 10km surveillance zone is in place to prevent the further spread of the disease.

The zones introduce additional rules for bird keepers, as well as those involved in fresh meat and meat products, transporters and bird gatherings.

Chair of Cambridgeshire County Council's communities, social mobility and inclusion committee Cllr Allison Whelan said: "I would encourage all poultry keepers to familiarise themselves with, and do their utmost to comply with, all restrictions now in place.

"We are a rural county, blessed with a wide range of commercial bird keepers. Their livelihoods and the health of their flocks depend on all bird keepers – large and small - doing their bit to prevent the further spread of this disease.

"Check your birds frequently for symptoms of Bird Flu - know the tell-tale signs and immediately report any ill-health to your veterinarian."

Within the three-kilometre protection zone virtually all captive birds must now be housed.

Strict bio-security measures with record-keeping requirements must also be in place in addition to movement restrictions.

Road signs will be erected by the county council on the main entry points to the zone to make alert bird transporters they are entering an animal disease control zone.

According to the Food Standards Agency, Avian Influenza poses a very low food safety risk for UK consumers.

Properly cooked poultry and poultry products, including eggs, are safe to eat.

It is a legal requirement to register all captive birds, even if you have just a few hens in the garden.

If you suspect Bird Flu, you must report it to APHA on 03000 200 301.

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