# 1454
As expected, Defra confirmed that the 3 dead swans found at the Abbotsbury Swannery were infected with the H5N1 virus. So far this appears to be an isolated incident, although heightened surveillance in the area is now promised.
Swans test positive for bird flu
Three dead wild swans test positive for deadly bird flu
Three wild swans found dead in Dorset have tested positive for the H5N1 strain of bird flu, the Government confirmed.
The birds were found in the Chesil Beach area of the county during routine surveillance.
A control area has been set up in the area, within which bird owners must isolate their flocks from wild birds. No disease has been found in domestic birds, and a programme of surveillance of wild birds is to be carried out.
Defra said there were no plans to cull wild flocks as this may disperse birds further. The Government's acting chief veterinary officer, Fred Landeg, said: "While this is obviously unwelcome news, we have always said that Britain is at a constant low level of risk of introduction of avian influenza.
"Our message to all bird keepers, particularly those in the area, is that they must be vigilant, report any signs of disease immediately, and practice the highest levels of biosecurity."
John Houston, general manager at Abbotsbury Tourism Ltd, said the dead birds were found by a member of staff at Abbotsbury Swannery and Defra was notified as part of standard procedure.
