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It's been just over two weeks since the last H5N8 outbreak was reported in the UK, but today that respite has been broken, as DEFRA has announced their 9th outbreak of this winter - this time in Suffolk.
Controls for Avian Influenza introduced around site in Suffolk
Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs and Animal and Plant Health Agency
13 February 2017
Controls have been introduced around a premises in Suffolk following investigation into a suspected case of H5N8 Avian Influenza.
The UK’s Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer has today (13 February) announced an initial 10km Temporary Control Zone around a poultry premises near Redgrave, in the district of mid-Suffolk, following investigation into a suspected case of Avian Influenza where laboratory analysis has identified the presence of H5N8.
The affected premises is estimated to contain approximately 23,000 birds. A number have died and it has been decided to humanely cull the remaining birds. Further investigations continue into the nature of the virus detected and to establish the possible source of the infection.
The 10km Temporary Control Zone consists of a 3km Zone A and 10km Zone B. The controls in these zones are equivalent to those which would apply in the 3km Protection Zone and the 10km Surveillance Zone around a confirmed case. We have published full details of the controls in place. Use our interactive map to check if you are affected by restrictions around any premises.
Public Health England advises the risk to public health from the virus is very low and the Food Standards Agency is clear that bird flu does not pose a food safety risk for UK consumers.
Read the latest advice and information on avian flu in the UK, including actions to reduce the risk of the disease spreading, advice for anyone who keeps poultry or captive birds and details of previous cases. Journalists with queries should contact Defra press office
