Ely MP Charlotte Cane statement on bird flu near Ely

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An MP has urged locals to "follow the rules" after an outbreak of bird flu in East Cambridgeshire on Friday (November 28).

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

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

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

In a statement the MP for Ely and East Cambridgeshire Charlotte Cane said she was being "kept informed" on news of the recent outbreak.

"My thoughts go out to everyone impacted, and I want to thank all those in the farming community, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), and Cambridgeshire County Council who are working tirelessly to contain the outbreak," she said.


 "It is vital that all bird keepers – whether commercial or those with just a few hens in the garden – follow the rules now in place."

MP for Ely and East Cambridgeshire, Charlotte Cane (Image: UK Parliament)

She added: "Cambridgeshire County Council is supporting DEFRA and APHA as part of the national contingency plan, with Trading Standards ensuring compliance with the rules.

"These measures protect livelihoods, valuable commercial bird stocks, and much-loved pets. With such a virulent strain, it is essential that everyone does their part." 

It is now a legal requirement to register all captive birds and those who have not should visit www.gov.uk to register.

What to do if you suspect bird flu?

If you suspect bird flu, you must report it to APHA on 03000 200 301.

Anyone with concerns about breaches should contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133.

The UK Health Security Agency has confirmed that Avian Influenza is primarily a disease of birds, and the risk to public health is very low.

However, people are urged to not touch dead wild birds and report them to Defra online at or call 03459 33 55 77.

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.

Have you got a story you want to share? Get in touch at oliver.murphy@newsquest.co.uk or newsdesk@elystandard.co.uk

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