Bird flu confirmed near Ely

A case of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) has been confirmed near Ely, leading to immediate measures to prevent the disease from spreading further.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) have established a 3km Protection Zone and a 10km Surveillance Zone in the affected area.

New rules for bird keepers

The measures introduce strict rules for bird keepers, those handling fresh meat and meat products, transporters, and individuals organising bird gatherings.

Within the 3km Protection Zone, nearly all captive birds must now be housed, accompanied by stringent bio-security measures, record-keeping requirements, and movement restrictions.

Guidance and legal requirements

An interactive map showing the Protection and Surveillance Zones is available online, alongside the Declaratory Order and guidance on identifying symptoms, reporting concerns, housing birds safely, and applying for movement licences.

It is now a legal requirement for all bird keepers to register their captive birds, even if they own just a few hens in their garden. More information on registration and APHA’s animal disease text alert service can be found via www.gov.uk

Cambridgeshire County Council is supporting DEFRA and APHA as part of the national animal disease contingency plan. Their Trading Standards team is working to ensure full compliance with the rules.

Statement from local authority

Chair of the Communities, Social Mobility and Inclusion Committee at Cambridgeshire County Council, Councillor Alison Whelan, urged bird keepers to adhere to the restrictions.

“I would encourage all poultry keepers to familiarise themselves with, and do their utmost to comply with, all restrictions now in place,” she said.

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

Wider public health risks

Although the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has described Bird Flu as primarily a disease affecting birds, they have determined the risk to public health is very low.

Members of the public are advised not to touch dead wild birds. Any sightings should be reported online or by calling 03459 33 55 77.

Meanwhile, the Food Standards Agency has confirmed that Avian Influenza poses a very low food safety risk to UK consumers. Properly cooked poultry, poultry products, and eggs remain safe to eat.

Further information can be found at www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk and www.gov.uk .

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